Are you Heading to Sydney for the first time in 2024 and looking for the best 7 day Itinerary for your trip? Well, I’ve done more than just visit Sydney, I’ve lived on its doorstep for 18 years. Keep reading for the all-inclusive guide (+ countless hidden local gems).
The beautiful metropolis of Sydney on Australia’s east coast is undoubtably one of the countries must-visit cities. As a Greater Sydney local, my Itinerary will be full to the brim local tips, magical hidden gems and off the beaten path destinations (that nobody else knows about!).
From fairytale Blue Mountains waterfalls, Sydney’s beautiful beaches, the magical Kaloo and Figure of 8 pools, and Wendy’s Secret Garden. This guide will go above and beyond the city’s tourist highlights.
Is It Your First Time In Sydney?
Are you dreaming of a perfect trip to Sydney? As a local, my custom itineraries are packed with hidden gems catered directly to you and based on your budget and interests. Plus pages of special tips to make your trip stress-free (and save you thousands!).
7 day Sydney Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Botanical Gardens, Dinner at The Rocks + Local Tips
Day 2: Manly & Shelley Beaches, the Manly Rock Pools, Explore the Hip Newtown District
Day 3: Karloo Pool, Figure 8 Pools, Sydney CBD + Hidden Food Gem
Day 4: the Glebe Markets, Explore Chinatown and Haymarket, Explore Sydney Nightlife
Day 5, Blue Mountains: Head to the Blue Mountains, Three Sisters, The Giant Stairway, Dinner at a Wine Bar, Stargazing
Day 6, Blue Mountains: Minnehaha Falls, The Cliff Top Walking Track, Local Restaurant Gem, Drive Back to Sydney
Day 7: Taronga Zoo, Wendy’s Secret Garden
Day 1: Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Botanical Gardens, Dinner at The Rocks + Local Tips
You can’t visit Sydney without seeing the cities famous sites, so the first day of your itinerary is going to be all about the icons.
Starting in Circular Quay, you’ll make your way to the Sydney Opera House, followed by a picnic lunch in the idyllic Botanical Gardens. You’ll have beautiful views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, but we’ll step it up with a ferry ride right under the bridge to Luna Park. Finally ending the day with a classic Sydney dinner in the glamorous nearby Rocks Area.
Morning Day 1: The Opera House & Royal Botanical Gardens
Your morning will start in Circular Quay, which is the main access point for most of Sydney’s iconic landmarks and is easily accessible by all types of public transport.
As you walk onto the edge of the harbour, you’ll immediately spot the arching Sydney Opera House to your right, about 500 meters from the train station. Make your way along the edge of the harbour until you reach the famous steps where you can take photos and admire the beautiful views.
If you want to add an extra magical layer to your evening, head to the Official Opera House Page and book yourself a seat for one of the buildings incredible shows and performances (but keep in mind this should be in advance).
Local Tip: On your way to Circular Quay, make sure to stop into a local cafe to try Australia’s most popular coffee creation, the ‘Flat White’. A flat white is essentially a strong smooth coffee, without as much foam as a latte or cappuccino.
From the Opera House, head down the stairs and you’ll see the entrance to another one of the harbours most beautiful landmarks.
The Royal Botanical Gardens cover an incredible 66 acres of land, with secret gardens, sprawling fields, local art, sculpture, flora and fauna. Visit the Official Website to choose which incredible spots you want to visit most, or else you could spend the entire day exploring it’s winding paths.
Afternoon Day 1: Lunch in the Park, Local Harbour Bridge Experience, Luna Park
After exploring the gardens, settle down at one of the parks beautiful cafes, or find yourself a spot to set up a delicious picnic. Make sure to fill up, there’s a long day of exploring ahead.
After lunch, stroll back along the harbour to Circular Quay station where you’ll find Sydney’s best (and cheapest) local harbour bridge experience… the ferry to Luna Park. The short 5 minute ferry leaves roughly every 15 minutes and will take you right under the iconic Harbour Bridge.
Local Tip: For the best views, grab a seat on the rooftop or the front balcony, It makes a great opportunity for a few photos.
Even better, it’ll drop you off at the famous Luna Park. Though rides are very expensive (but fun if it’s in your budget), you can still walk around and explore the age old amusement park.
From there you can either catch the ferry back to Circular Quay, or take the 5 minutes walk up to Milton’s Point train station. The train from there to Circular Quay will actually take you over the Harbour Bridge, giving you incredible views of the city.
Evening Day 1: Dinner & Drinks at The Rocks + Secret City Views
The Rocks is a famous district walking distance from Circular Quay. The area is known for it’s upscale bars and restaurants serving delicious Australian classics, including Sydney’s famous seafood.
Spend some time exploring the beautiful historic area and it’s colonial architecture before settling down for a delicious meal you won’t forget. Afterwards, continue walking along the edge of the harbour to find some of the best night time views of the city.
Pick up an ice cream from one of the many of the gelato shops along the promenade and find a spot on one of the wooden planks that border the harbours edge to eat and watch the city lights. Just be conscious that there’s nothing else between you and the water, so prioritise your safety.
Day 2: Manly & Shelley Beaches, the Manly Rock Pools, Explore the Hip Newtown District
Morning Day 2: Manly Cafes and Beach
After a day of seeing iconic sites, It’s time to explore another thing that makes Sydney as famous as it is: it’s beaches. While most people will immediately think of Bondi, I wouldn’t recommend visiting as the beach is overcrowded and dirty in tourist seasons.
Instead, catch the ferry or bus to Sydney’s real local gem, Manly beach. Not only is the beach nicer, the water more striking and the cafes/ shopping better, but it’s surrounded by other local favourites.
Grab a delicious coffee and breakfast at one of the many local spots and then head to the beaches for a day of relaxing.
Afternoon Day 2: Shelley Beach & Manly Rock Pools
You can absolutely swim and surf in Manly, but if you want a little more seclusion take the 14 minute walk along the paved path to Shelley Beach. Shelley is one of Sydney’s best kept secrets, a tiny tranquil cove framed by trees and rocks.
Back along the path you’ll find the areas famous pools. If you’re looking to do some laps or relax in the salt water without worrying about waves, these pools are relaxing and fun for the family. The rocks along the edge are also the perfect place to join Australians getting that trademark golden tan.
Local Tip: Just across from the Manly Pools you’ll find plenty of cafe’s serving a Sydney local favourite, Açai Bowls. It’s delicious, super customisable, easy and an all-round perfect lunch or snack.
Evening Day 2: Explore the Hip Newtown District
Newtown is THE SPOT for young people around the city. The district is easily accessible by public transport and locally known for its hip clubs, bars, vintage stores, art scene and underground music.
It’s also the best place to head at night. Whether you just want to try some of it’s delicious international cuisine, or head to one of the local spots for music, dancing, and drinks.
Lou’s Newtown Recommendations:
Food- Turkish Ice cream: If you’re looking for something sweet, Hakiki specialises in special stretchy Turkish ice cream and baklava. Topped with chopped pistachios, this is some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had.
Food- Bloodwood: For a trendy spot with an amazing atmosphere, food and drinks, try Bloodwood. With a unique menu featuring innovative Australian cuisine and unique dishes, this gorgeous restaurant is such a fun evening out.
Food- La Favola: For authentic Italian food, including delicious handmade pastas and seafood head to La Favola. The restaurant even offers make your own pasta, plus cocktails and wine + cooking classes.
Stores- Blue Dog Posters: My favourite store in Newtown has to be Blue Dog Posters. The have a huge range of art prints and posters in all different sizes. As well as pins, title bags, t-shirts and other beautiful pieces. The best part is that out the back you can sort through stacks of giant posters, each for under $15.
Stores- Reclaim Newtown: One of the areas best vintage/ thrift stores. Reclaim Newtown has a huge range of vintage, retro and up cycled items. It’s one of many second hand stores that lines King Street, but is still a standout.
Bars and clubs- The Bank Hotel: The Bank is the most popular place to head at night, with a very diverse range of music and DJ’s and a really lively crowd. On Wednesdays it also transforms into Birdcage, a very popular queer club.
Bars and clubs- Earl’s Juke Joint: With amazing retro vibes, this hidden gem has crafted cocktails and a cool speakeasy atmosphere. If you don’t want to dance but still want to have fun, this place is for you.
Day 3: Karloo Pool, Figure 8 Pools, Sydney CBD + Hidden Food Gem
On day 3 is when you’ll get your first good taste of Australia’s bush land beauty. After exploring Sydney’s man made icons, and a few of the cities best beaches it’s time to head out into nature.
Today is all about the magical Royal National Park (and a little foodie treat). The park sits a 40 minute drive south of the cities CBD. Though it’s a little more off the beaten path, It’s worth taking the time and effort to visit for it’s magical pools and forest.
IMPORTANT LOCAL TIP: It’s at this point in your trip where I would really recommend hiring a car. Sydney has a brilliant public transport system, but it can only get you so far. Uber also does not operate in all the amazing areas you’ll be headed in this itinerary. To get the best deals on cars, head over to my friends at Discover Cars!
Morning Day 3: Bushwalking, Rest and Relax at Karloo Pool
Your day is going to start with a bit of a long haul drive/ train ride, but it’s undeniably worth it for what you’re going to experience. Your best option for transport is by car, which I recommend you rent for a few days starting today. With a car the journey only takes 40 minutes instead of 2 and a half hours by train.
You’ll make your way to Heathcote, where you can find the Karloo Pool Walking Track. The hike is about 2.7km each way with around 200m of elevation gain, I really recommend this guide for hike directions and more in depth information on the pools.
Once you arrive you’ll find a deep blue lagoon surrounded by huge rocks, and beautiful Australian bush land. It is completely safe, and really encouraged to swim! Beyond beaches, this is the real Australian swimming experience, and how most Australians outside of the city spend our hottest days.
Bring some snacks or a picnic lunch and lots of water for a mid swim picnic while you soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Australia’s pristine bush.
Afternoon Day 3: Experience the magic of the figure 8 Pools
Here’s where your Discover Car will really come in handy, because getting from the Karloo Pool Walking Track to the Figure 8 Pools by public transport will cost just as much as the car rental for the day, and this is a spot you seriously don’t want to miss.
The Figure 8 Pools are located on a sprawling rock shelf along the coast of the Royal National Park. As you might have guessed from their name, these pools are shaped as almost perfect figure of 8’s, and filled with sparkling clear blue water.
Depending on the day however, this activity might have to move to the morning, as your ability to safely see the pools really depends on the tides behaviour. The swell has to be bellow 1 meter and the waves have to be small, otherwise, being on the ledge can become dangerous.
I really recommend hiring a guide if you aren’t confident, and they can also be super informative and keep you learning on the 2 hour round trip hike (yep, your legs might get a bit sore today! But don’t worry, tomorrow is much more relaxed). Below is my recommended tour if you want to explore in a little more comfort.
Lou’s Recommendation: Figure 8 Pools Tour
Rated 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Visit the pools safely and get beautiful photos and lifelong memories! Click Here To Book.
Evening Day 3: Dinner at Spice Alley, Explore Sydney CBD
Out of all of the incredible food venues in Sydney (and there are plenty), the hidden back alley street food venue ‘Spice Alley’ has always stood out as my favourite and a real favourite of Sydney locals. It’s no wonder that on weekend evenings, Spice Alley becomes an electric, buzzing, and bustling gastronomy centre.
Nestled in a back alleyway right off the Sydney CBD’s main road, each side of the bustling street is full of bloating to block Asian street food stalls with every type of food you could imagine. You’ll find countless cuisines, drinks, and great outdoor seating.
Just know you cannot pay with cash, so bring a credit or debit card. I really recommend getting one of the Indian plates with naan, curries and plenty of meat and vegetable options, or the delicious dumplings served fresh and hot.
Day 4: the Glebe Markets, Explore Chinatown and Haymarket, Explore Sydney Nightlife
Glebe Markets has been put on day 4, but in reality the amazing arts, thrift and food market in the hip suburb of Glebe is only open on Saturday mornings.
I really suggest you go and shift this day of your itinerary to whatever day Saturday falls on, as this market is always so much fun. Known among locals, especially young people, for having incredible home baked food, hand made accessories, clothes, and thousands of beautiful vintage and thrifted pieces.
Morning Day 4: experience the Glebe Markets
If you’re someone who likes to thrift, likes beautiful handmade art and clothes, or even loves delicious homemade treats, then the Glebe Markets are the spot to be.
Every Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the markets open to crowds of locals from all over the city looking to shop or just enjoy the vibes. I love the Glebe Markets, and make the trip whenever I can to browse and spend time with friends. I really recommend you do too if any day of your visit lands on a Saturday.
Spend the morning browsing, shopping and enjoying the music. Then I definitely suggest you grab a few delicious bites to eat and set up a picnic on the grass. Especially if it’s sunny, this is a great way to enjoy the morning.
Afternoon Day 4: Explore Chinatown and Haymarket
You’ll have plenty of time to rest and relax at the markets, with your afternoon simply set aside for a bit of exploring in the inner city.
First, take a stroll around Chinatown, which is a hub for beautiful shops and delicious food. Along the Main Street is where you can find some of the city’s best Asian cuisine. So, If you’re getting hungry for lunch it could be a great place to stop for a bite to eat.
Local Tip: A true favourite in Chinatown is Emperors Puffs, known around the city for their super cheap (and super delicious cream puffs. They sell the custard puffs for around $5 for 10 and they’re such a delicious snack on the go.
Evening Day 4: Explore Sydney’s Nightlife or Take a Break
Sydney isn’t known for having good nightlife, but that’s really started to turn around. In 2024, when you head out in Sydney after dark you’ll find incredible food, music, bars and clubs.
The Bank is the well known spot for dancing in Newtown, and features the LGBTQ+ club Birdcage on Wednesdays which is really popular among young people. Up and down King street (the Main Street of Newtown), you’ll find countless small hip bars, underground music and clubs that are always a great time.
Club 77 in Darlinghurst is another one that lives up to it’s fame, currently ruling the clubbing game in the city. Or if you’re looking for music, the Landsdowne has live shows almost every night and is constantly switching up the vibe.
Day 5, Blue Mountains: Head to the Blue Mountains, Three Sisters, The Giant Stairway, Dinner at a Wine Bar, Stargazing
After exploring the beautiful city of Sydney, It’s time to drive 2 hours over to its magical natural neighbour, the UNESCO World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park. Depending on when you visit, you may have sun and skies, bright red leaves, or you may even catch some snow.
I’ve lived in the Blue Mountains for my whole life, and even after travelling to 5 different continents, my hometown has remained one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. If you plan on visiting Sydney, you must also visit the Mountains.
If you’re unconvinced, definitely read my guide on why the Blue Mountains are worth visiting.
IMPORTANT LOCAL INFORMATION: The Blue Mountains’ biodiversity has become threatened over the years because of extreme tourism; as a local and a traveller, I really encourage you to look deeper into ways to travel here sustainably. To Learn more, read my guide on Blue Mountains Sustainable Travel.
Morning Day 5: Leave Sydney Early, Check Into Accomodation, Sisters lookout
You’re going to want to leave early to head from Sydney to the magical Blue Mountains, because not only should you be really excited for what’s to come, but you’ll want to see is much as possible with just 2 days to spare.
The drive from Sydney’s CBD to the Blue Mountains most popular town of Katoomba is around an hour and a half (102km). The train ride only takes a little bit longer, around 2 hours, but I really recommend taking a car if you want to experience the Mountains fully.
You’ll drive past some beautiful views as you climb the Blue Mountains main (and pretty much only accessible) highway from Sydney. You can read more about which towns I recommend you stay in my Blue Mountains Guide, which includes each area worth staying in and why.
After you check in and settle down, you have to stop off at Echo Point for the most famous view in the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters in Katoomba.
Afternoon Day 5: The Giant Stairway Bush walk
You can’t go to the Mountains without doing a bush walk/ hike. And after living in the Blue Mountains for 18 years one of my favourites and my top tourist recommendation has to be the Giant Stairway in Katoomba.
The walk is iconic among tourists and locals alike, descending from Echo Point Lookout down almost 1000 stairs to the base of the first sister. Though you can’t walk across Honeymoon Bridge and touch the rock anymore due to mistreatment and danger, you can still admire the view, which is really something.
I would only recommend this walk to people who have a decent level of fitness, since 1000 stairs can be difficult on your joints going down and tiring going up.
However, If you don’t feel physically well enough to go all the way down, you can still walk along the beautiful paved track that goes from the lookout to the top of the stairs. It showcases beautiful nature, views, sculptures and lots of information of the Blue Mountains flora and fauna.
Evening Day 5: Sunset, Dinner at a Local Wine Bar, Stargazing Tour
There’s a full day of travel behind, but the adventure doesn’t stop yet. Head from Katoomba up to the small town of Blackheath for some of the best views of the sunset, a delicious dinner, and some beautiful stars.
*It’s important to note that this part of the itinerary certainly requires you to have a car, though I seriously recommend bringing a car when you come to the Blue Mountains in general*
For the most beautiful sunset in the Blue Mountains, make your way to Mt Blackheath. After a short drive along a bumpy dirt road (it should be okay for any car), you’ll arrive at Blackheath paragliding takeoff ramp.
You can set up picnic on the top of the ramp, the picnic tables just behind it, or on the old wooden ramp to it’s right. Then sit back and admire the beautiful views of the valley, paragliders, mountains, and colourful sunset.
After the sun sets, head back into Blackheath for dinner at Frankie & Mo’s Wine and Bar, a favourite among Blackheath locals. And when you’re full you can either head back to your accomodation to rest, or do one of the best things you can do in the mountains: a stargazing tour.
The Best Stargazing Tour: If you want an incredible stargazing experience, the best thing to do is to go with a professional astronomer. In this tour, you’ll be able to see incredible stars (thanks to so little light pollution) and learn all about them too. Tap here to see prices and availability!
Day 6, Blue Mountains: Minnehaha Falls, The Cliff Top Walking Track, Local Restaurant Gem, Drive Back to Sydney
Yesterday you got the chance to visit tourist hotspots, today you’ll be seeing some more incredible natural sites and local gems! Starting at my favourite place in the Blue Mountains, Minnehaha falls, followed by an incredible hike, and a delicious local food spot.
Morning Day 6: Minnehaha Falls
I have no hesitation when I say Minnehaha Falls is my favourite place in the Blue Mountains, and I think it’ll be yours too.
The 20m waterfall in the middle of the beautiful bush land cascades into a wide green pool that is perfect for swimming. Around it are amazing sunbathing rocks, and even a few cliff jumps around cave that surrounds the back of the pool.
The walk to reach it is a scenic 2.6km (1.6 mile) hike, which is steep towards the end but immediately worth it when you arrive at the falls.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: My love for Minnehaha Falls also comes with a passion to keep it safe. Both because it is a special and loved spot by locals, but also because it is sacred place for Australian indigenous people! So please do your research (starting with this Mountains Sustainability Guide), pick up your trash and do what you can to minimise your impact!
Afternoon Day 6: Lunch, Cliff top Walk
There’s been a lot of walking in the last few days, but it is honestly the best way to experience the Blue Mountains stunning natural beauty. This walk is a 2.5 hour round trip and about 6km long, so while it’s definitely not short its well worth it for the views you’ll get.
Before you head out, take the scenic 20 minute drive down to the Megalong Valley where you’ll find the Megalong Valley Tearooms. The tearooms is one of my favourite places to go for delicious drinks and farm grown food (and the setting is absolutely beautiful).
This walk starts at Govetts Leap lookout in the town of Blackheath and traverses the edge of the cliff line all the way to Evans lookout. Both lookouts offer an amazing view of the Grose Valley, but walking along the edge of the cliff is even more spectacular.
Make sure to bring water, sunscreen, good shoes, a first aid kit, and some snacks. Walks are generally very safe, but the sun can be scolding. And as everywhere in Australia (in summer) it’s important to be prepared for the small chance you’ll encounter snakes or spiders.
Evening Day 6: Head Back to Sydney
Now your time in the Blue Mountains is over! After you finish your walk, it’s finally time to head back to Sydney.
Day 7: Taronga Zoo, Wendy’s Secret Garden
Morning & Afternoon Day 7: Taronga Zoo
Have you ever wanted to see Australian animals up close? Well this is your chance. Taronga Zoo is home to thousands of amazing and unique animals from all over the world, including fluffy Koala bears, kangaroos, and platypus.
Their day pass is $51 AUD for an adult and gives you access to the whole zoo (including the coolest free shows) for the day. It’s just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, and is well worth the money for the amount of amazing animals you’ll get to experience.
While you’re there, I recommend seeing one of their most popular shows, the seal show! Their seals are all rescued or rehabilitated and it’s such a fun thing to see. For even more fun, sit at the front in the ‘water splash zone’ while the seals do their amazing tricks. Kids absolutely love it!
Accomodation Tip: If you want to add another level to this incredible experience, book in to stay at Taronga’s immersive wildlife resort. These incredible rooms open right onto the animal enclosures, so you can literally watch the koalas munch or gorillas swing from your balcony. Check here for availability and prices.
Evening Day 7: Wendy’s Secret Garden
After an eventful day at Taronga Zoo, you need some time to rest and unwind. Head to one of Sydney’s best kept hidden gems, Wendy’s Secret Garden. This Garden is full of fairytale winding pathways, colourful flowers and bright green trees. Even better, it has one of the best views of Sydney Harbour Bridge.
For a calm and peaceful evening, pack a picnic and set up on the law to watch the sun set over the harbour!
Where to Stay in Sydney
Sydney has some incredible places to stay, but in my experience these are the best luxury, mid-range and budget options for your adventures in the city.
Luxury: Capella Sydney – Peak Sydney luxury 600m from the Royal Botanical Gardens
Medium Range: Hotel Challis – Beautiful little hotel in an incredible location
Budget: Sydney YHA – Central location in The Rocks and the most popular hostel accomodation for backpackers
sydney Itinerary FAQ’s
As a local there are some things I’m asked over and over, here are a few of peoples most popular q’s about travel in Sydney.
Do you Need a Car?
Though you don’t need a car to explore Sydney’s city and surrounding built up areas because of our amazing public transport system, I really recommend it if you want to see the beautiful natural sites around it.
Places like the Royal National Park and Blue Mountains are much more difficult and less enjoyable without a car. And having a car gives you a level of freedom which will allow you to see more and have a less stressful trip.
Is Sydney Walkable?
Sydney is a very walkable city, but keep in mind that it’s also very big. I recommend using the city’s public transport system which is widely available in the forms of trains trams and buses. It’s as easy as tapping your credit card, no extra cards or tickets required.
Conclusion: 7 Day Sydney Itinerary
In this Sydney Itinerary you’ll get to experience all sides of the city. You’ll see the iconic tourist hotspots, natural wonders, and dive a little deeper with little known local spots too.
With all my extra local tips and expertise it’ll be easier to navigate and experience the best things Sydney has to offer, as safely, cheaply and sustainable as possible.
Are you looking for a more detailed and customised Itinerary? Inquiries are now open for custom itinerary planning! Head to the ‘Custom Itinerary Planning’ page in the menu to inquire!
Now get exploring!
