There are countless reasons to visit Sydney. The sublime beaches, the dazzling architecture, the sensational parks, the captivating culture… the list goes on and on!
Because of those reasons, I had wanted to visit the land down under for some time. So when I found myself only hours away, I planned a brief trip there on my way to The Blonde Abroad’s blogging retreat in Bali. And I was surprised to find it immediately felt like home.
Sure, it seems like San Diego (only really far away), but it was more than that.
Sydney is a city that’s alive with culture and adventure, and the people welcome you like family. Despite insects that can kill you (assuming the Vegemite doesn’t do you in first), it’s one place I can’t recommend highly enough.
Still not convinced the 15-hour flight is worth it? Well, here are some reasons to visit Sydney that will surely change your mind.
For an especially stunning view of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, head to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. Located in the Royal Botanic Gardens, it’s the perfect vantage point for this iconic shot.
Despite looking uniformly white from a distance, the outside of the opera house is actually two tones – glossy white and matte cream. Especially interesting is the chevron pattern which is created with several tiles. 1,056,006 to be exact! It makes the already beautiful exterior even more spectacular.
Up for a little adventure? Then check out the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb! It’s a heart-pounding way to see Sydney from a completely different point of view.
Sydney has some truly jaw-dropping parks. One of my favorites was the Royal Botanic Gardens along the Sydney Harbour. It’s a beautiful juxtaposition between Australia’s lush foliage and the bustle of the city.
The Strand is a great spot to shop and grab a quick bite. Uniquely Victorian in design, the shopping center is an oasis in the heart of Sydney.
Aussies love their rock pools! These seaside swimmers derived their name from literally being hammered out of the rocky shoreline. Can you think of a more fantastic place to take a dip?
There’s nothing like watching the sunrise over the Sydney Opera House. For that reason, I dragged myself out of my super comfy bed at the Intercontinental to witness it. Obviously, the view was well worth the effort!
Speaking of the Intercontinental, if you’re there make sure to venture to its rooftop club for some really stunning scenery! Because the deck wraps around most of the building, it’s the perfect spot to soak up some harbor views!
If you’re in the mood for a creative way to unwind, then head to the Bondi to Coogee walk! There you can marvel at several arty sculptures along the oceanside trail. Yes, I said arty. And yes, we’re calling that a real word for the purposes of this post.
Sydney has some really spectacular sunsets. I vividly remember this evening – within minutes the sky was on fire with red and orange hues. No filters here, just nature at her best!
Has anyone ever looked more like a tourist? If I was wearing a Hawaiian shirt with some zinc on my nose it’d really seal the deal.
Established in 1877, the Waverley Cemetery is a morbidly beautiful landmark along the Bondi to Coogee walk. Located on the cliffs at Bronte, it’s noted as one of the most picturesque cemeteries in the world.
It’s easy to see why Waverley Cemetery is so revered. With intact Victorian and Edwardian monuments, it’s really an alluring setting.
Appreciate Sydney’s charm with a walk along the trail from Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair to the other end of the Royal Botanic Gardens. It’s a wonderful area for a jog or stroll around the harbor to the Opera House!
The Bondi Icebergs Club is a great place to grab a cocktail while you enjoy a leisurely afternoon. This iconic swimming club has been around since 1929 and offers gorgeous views with delicious drinks.
The ANZAC Memorial is located on the southern edge of Hyde Park. This concrete and pink marble Art Deco building is the main military commemorative monument in Sydney. Equally unique as it is beautiful, it’s a must-see on any Sydney itinerary.
Inside the ANZAC Memorial you’ll find intricate sculptures throughout its main circular room. One of the most jaw-dropping aspects of its interior though are the 120,000 gold stars scattered across the domed ceiling. There is one for each of the New South Wales men and women who served during World War I.
If you’re looking for a place to eat, head down to Circular Quay! There you’ll find a number of eateries and shops with a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
Australia is known for is unique (and often deadly) animals. One such unique animal is the white ibis. These long-beaked birds are all over Sydney and remind me of something from Jim Henson’s Dark Crystal (any 80’s babies out there?)
The Archibald Fountain is located next to the stunning St. Mary’s Cathedral. It was unveiled in March 1932 and is a popular destination for those visiting Hyde Park.
The Archibald Fountain was paid for by J. F. Archibald, who wanted a French artist to design it. He loved French culture and wished for Sydney to aspire to a Parisian feel. It seems he certainly accomplished that with this beautiful fountain!
The many beaches around Sydney add to the laid back atmosphere of the city. For this reason, it very much reminds me of southern California.
A spectacular wall mural near the Sydney Harbor Bridge. I really loved it (because nothing says adventure like a hot air balloon!)
“There’s an ease that I have living in Australia. The best things about Sydney are free: the sunshine’s free, the harbour’s free, and the beach is free.” Russell Crowe
I never like to repeat destinations, but Sydney is definitely a place I’ll be going back to in the future!
And there you have it! 25 reasons why you should add Sydney to your bucket list, and experience all that the land down under has to offer. Have you ever been? What were some of your favorite things to see and do?
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