Sydney is a cosmopolitan harbour city that offers countless attractions to visitors, but it can be hard to make the most of your time there if you rely on public transportation. Although the trains, buses and even ferries can be a quick way to get around the city centre, they may not be able to get you to some of the great locations outside of Sydney. If you choose to rent a car in Sydney, you will also have the freedom to stop at landmarks along the way, enjoy the scenery from behind the wheel and some truly beautiful drives along the coast. Here are the top things to do and see while visiting Sydney.
Palm Beach: Catch the Filming of a Popular Television Show
If you are a fan of the popular show “Home and Away,” then no trip to Sydney would be complete without a day trip to Palm Beach. “Home and Away” is one of the most popular soap operas ever produced, and it has been a success in the United Kingdom as well as Australia for 25 years. The show is filmed on location in Palm Beach, although you might know it best under the fictional name from the show, Summer Bay. Along with the chance to spot some of your favourite actors and actresses on location, visitors to Palm Beach can swim, go surfing or just walk along the coastline, which stretches for more than two miles.
The Rocks: See the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Just north of Sydney’s City Centre is the district best known as The Rocks. This part of the city boasts some truly amazing views over the harbour, which is why it is such a popular spot to enjoy a gourmet meal or a drink in the evening. However, nothing can compete with the largest attraction of all, the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Referred to by locals as the coat hanger, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an incredible landmark in the heart of the city, and you will want to either walk across the bridge or get a great view from the nearby Pylon Lookout.
City Centre: Admire Some of the City’s Top Museums and Landmarks
Sydney’s city centre is the oldest part of the city, and it is where the British flag first went into Australian soil more than 200 years ago. Unsurprisingly, then, it is also home to many of the city’s most interesting structures and oldest historical landmarks. No trip would be complete without a tour of this part of the city. A highlight is definitely the Sydney Opera House, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the entire world. Stop by for a tour of the opera house, or just come by for a drink at the outdoor terrace bar. Other stops worth visiting in the city centre include the Sydney Tower, the Queen Victoria Building and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
Darling Harbour: The Epicentre of Entertainment in Sydney
Although this is undoubtedly a touristic part of the city, it is still a fun place to go for entertainment, drinking and dining. During the day, you might want to make time for the Sydney Aquarium, Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney Wildlife World or the Chinese Garden of Friendship. At night, head out for a meal in the Cockle Bay area, catch a show at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, watch the Darling Harbour Fireworks or grab a drink at a bar overlooking the water.
Beaches: Discover the Top Beaches in Sydney
Although there is plenty of city-based attractions in Sydney, having a car means that you can get away from the crowds and explore the beaches as well. Bondi Beach is the most popular, and it is a fun place to swim, surf and make friends with the locals and visitors who frequent the beach. If you head farther north, you will discover an array of beaches to choose from including Manly Beach, Dee Why and Mona Vale. Although places like Manly Beach are still usually quite busy when the weather is warm, there are fewer tourists and more residents in these northern beaches.
Sydney is an incredible city, but it is impossible to list out everything to see, do and explore in just one article. Renting a car will allow you to experience the most out of the city.