A Day in Sydney Itinerary – For those that want a bit of everything
People often ask us, if you had one day in Sydney what would you do? It’s a good question actually because most people visiting Sydney want to experience as much as they can in a short period. Sydney is a true metropolis of coastal beauty, rich Australian culture and is in the midst of urban innovation. We experience close to perfect weather all year round which makes outdoor activities even more appealing. However, we think that the best way to soak up the beauty of this city is by doing these three things:
- Spend the day with a friendly, local and knowledgeable guide
- Explore the city by foot, and take your time
- Get out on the Harbour
The good news? We have taken these 3 things and created the perfect Sydney itinerary!
Your perfect day in Sydney
Start your morning in a local cafe, Sydney is known for its cool cafes and excellent food, so you won’t be disappointed with most in the city. However if you are after something a little more exciting, we recommend The Grounds of Alexandra. Even though it is not in the heart of the city (a 15-minute cab ride) it’s worth the trip. Located in a former industrial precinct from the 1920s, The Grounds of Alexandria is a landmark cafe, restaurant & bar, garden, bakery & patisserie, coffee roastery, animal farm, florist, markets and more! I would set aside at least 1 -2 hours here to soak up the atmosphere and wander around. It’s a beauty! For something close to your hotel, they have a sister property The Grounds of the City which is their adaptation of a Parisian Bistro Cafe-Bar. If stellar views of the harbour is more your style, then you can’t go past the MCA Cafe. This rooftop eatery is perched above the Museum of Contemporary Art (and admission is free) so you can explore this incredible building afterwards which host’s some of the most incredible art!
Next, make your way back to your hotel to start your day exploring our marvellous city. Your private guide will meet you in the lobby. To begin the walk, we pass the world-famous Sydney Opera House and through the gates leading into the Royal Botanical Gardens, the location of the first farm area in the colony founded in 1788. Have time to stop and enjoy the views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Look through the fence at the architectural period design of Government House. Walk under majestic mature shade trees, see wonderful coloured flowers, plus listen and watch out for many birds. View the great sights of Sydney Harbour next to the extensive sandstone sea wall. Visit the herb garden, smell the different aromas and learn about the culinary and medical uses of plants.
Stroll onto the grand Art Gallery of NSW where you will see some of the best Australian and European artwork. Sit down at a local Café with your guide, observe the locals and discuss the Aussie way of life. From here meander through the open spaces of The Domain parkland, before casting your eyes upon the prominent Gothic style of St Mary’s Cathedral. Walk on into Hyde Park passing by the famous Archibald Fountain before moving on to see the interesting architectural style of the Sydney Town Hall. Nearby is also the fine Gothic-styled Cathedral of St Andrew, and the impressive Queen Victoria Building filled with amazing classical features, designer label shopping boutiques and eateries. Walk on past the very tall iconic Sydney Tower before strolling down Macquarie Street to discover some of Sydney’s oldest important historical buildings and learn of their past and present uses.
Now it’s time to see the city from our spectacular Sydney Harbour, We board your personalised water taxi and explore, with your guide by your side providing commentary, Sydney’s aquatic playground. The harbour consists of 240 kilometres (150 miles) of shoreline, punctuated by unspoiled beaches, picturesque gardens and pockets of natural bush and some of the country’s most prestigious real estate. Afterwards, your water taxi will drop you off at the Sydney Opera House for an afternoon cocktail overlooking the very harbour you just cruised around.
If you are looking for recommendations for dinner, we love Mr Wong, a Cantonese-style food restaurant, hidden in the laneways just off George Street. This unassuming restaurant seats 240 people yet manages to create an intimate vibe with lots of hidden nooks and dim lighting.
Hot tip: Mr Wong does not take bookings for groups less than 6. If you have to wait for a table then we have a gem of a detour for a cocktail! Palmer & Co which is a subterranean bar right next door. It has a cool 1920’s vibe with a killer drinks list and live entertainment.
If you want further information, please email or call us.
Email: tours@sydneywalkingtours.com | Phone: +61299808799