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The first impression that you get of Sydney, when you step off the plane and go into the city, is it’s a city of fresh air. City is a clean city for certain and why wouldn’t it be. Sydney is a highly regulated city and as my friend likes to say, “Australia is a nanny state.” That being said, it’s certainly a fun place to go and for the most part you don’t have to worry about not feeling safe, although Kings Cross can be a bit rough.

When in Sydney, there are 5 things that you absolutely must do while in town just to get a proper sense of Sydney. There are certainly more to Sydney than these suggestions, but to not do these 5 essential things would mean to miss out on a lot of this beautiful city’s flare.[spacer height=”25px”]

1. Sydney Harbor Bridge[spacer height=”10px”]

Start with a healthy walk across the bridge, from the South which is on the side of The Rocks. You will be impressed with the structure as you walk across the bridge. Looking at this massive pile of iron that spans the harbor will leave you in awe as you walk across it. Plus, you will also get a bird’s eye view of the Opera House and Circular Quay as you walk across. The walk is easy and the price is right… Free! For those of you with a little extra change in your pocket, you can also pay to walk the staircase up one of the pylons which allows for a more unobstructed view. If you can afford it, I highly suggest this option. For those who have a little more change in their pocket, you can opt for a more intimate view of the bridge. They actually allow you to walk on the actual structure of the bridge. You will be walking on the bridge as cars beneath you zoom by. Those who have done this bridge tour say it’s worth it.

Once you’ve finished walking across the bridge, if you started from the South, you should end up in North Sydney. From there I suggest you walk down towards the harbor, along side the bridge. There’s a nice grassy area with allows for some nice views of the underside of the bridge. Looking up at the structure gives you a sense of how massive the bridge is.[spacer height=”25px”]

2. North Sydney[spacer height=”10px”]

North Sydney is multi-purpose. It’s a great place to go to get away from the crowd, take nice photos, and watch the sunset. If your purpose is to relax and just take in the view, this is the place. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view. If you walk a little further up along side of the million dollar homes, there are also nice benches to have a perch.

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In the late afternoon and early evening, this place is a magnet for photographers looking to get the perfect shot of a Sydney sunset. You will find them lined up alongside the walk near the water, jockeying for the most spot for their picture. 

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3. Circular Quay[spacer height=”10px”]

If by now you are tired from all that walking, you do have the option of taking the train from North Sydney to Circular Quay. The walk isn’t very far and you are rewarded with nice views as you walk. Circular Quay is a nice place to take a break and grab a bite to eat. There are plenty of restaurants for you to choose to dine and take in the view of the harbor. There are also places for the budget traveler as wells. Maccas (McDonald’s) is right across the street. Circular Quay is also a nice option for dinner. On one side, you will have the Opera House while Downtown Sydney lights up the other.

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Once you’ve finished your break, there are options. From here you could catch a harbor cruise of the city or you catch a local street performer playing to the crowd.

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4. Opera House[spacer height=”10px”]

Walking a little farther south is probably the most symbolic building associated with Australia. Yes, I’m talking about no other than the Opera House. This impressive structure will leave you in awe while you gaze at it overlooking the water. And whether you are looking from the front of the back, both sides are equally impressive. This is one place you absolutely can’t miss when you come to Australia.

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You absolutely must walk the grounds and take in the splendor of the structure. And once you’re done see the outside, absolutely take a tour of the inside. There are tour options to suit every budget. 

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5. Sydney Tower[spacer height=”10px”]

The Sydney Tower is certainly not the most impressive structure when compared to other comparable cities with similar structure, but it still affords for some nice views of the city. If you are looking for the ultimate panoramic shot, this might be the option for you being that it’s one of the highest structures in the city. Just be prepared to pay. Other good options to try, while at the Sydney Tower, are drinks or a meal while you are there. Just forewarn you, the dinner is a bit pricey and not necessary of great value.

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Starting with these attractions will set you on a good pace for touring Sydney. There are certainly a ton of other places you’ll want to check out. There are aquariums and botanical gardens. There is even a place to do parkour along the water, if that’s your forte. If times allows one other place I will definitely visit is the Blue Mountains.