Sightseeing in Sydney
As there is so much to see and do here, I thought I thought I’d start by sharing my top five suggestions of fabulous things to see and do in Sydney....in no particular order....
Taronga Zoo
A conservation and education centre rather than an entertainment site, their belief is that all of us have a responsibility to protect the world’s precious wildlife, not just in our lifetimes, but for the generations of the future. Taronga has an absolute commitment to the conservation of wildlife in Australia and around the world. Just 12 minutes by ferry from Circular quay with spectacular views over Sydney Harbour and you can even opt to stay overnight at the newly opened luxurious Wildlife Retreat. This is an elegant Australian eco-retreat surrounded by wildlife and stunning scenic views. Where else could you wake to a koala in the tree outside your window – and Sydney Harbour Bridge as the background?
Another option is to enjoy an unforgettable safari-style overnight experience featuring intimate animal encounters and fascinating keeper talks with the Roar and Snore while enjoying the glistening sunset and sunrise over spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Home to over 4000 animals from over 350 species, many of which are threatened you will have the chance to see close up.
Bondi to Coogee Walk
One of the best Sydney walks, this fabulous cliff top 6km coastal walk features stunning views, 5 of Australia's most famous beaches, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools. You can either do the whole hike or just parts of it. For a shorter walk, try the 2.5km Bondi to Bronte. You can then choose to carry on for another 3.5km to Coogee taking in the stunning Sesquicentenary Boardwalk with breath-taking views above the ocean. Notts Avenue is the official starting point close to the famous Bondi Icebergs Club.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
This was a long-standing item on my 'bucket list' that I managed to tick off earlier this month and it did not disappoint! Whilst the idea for a bridge was being discussed as early as 1815, building started in 1923 and was opening on 19th March 1932 at a cost AUD 10 million. The summit is 134 metres above sea level and has unrivalled panoramic views of Sydney. Today the bridge has 8 lanes of traffic, 2 rail lines and over 200,000 vehicles cross it every day! There are a range of options for climbing the bridge and I can help find the perfect one for you.
Sydney Opera House
Easily one of the most iconic buildings in the world – the Sydney Opera House is an architectural masterpiece and vibrant performance space. Designed by Jorn Utzon from Denmark, it was originally estimated in 1959 that it would cost AUD 4 million and take four years. It was officially opened in 1973 and took 24 years and cost AUD 102 million!
Want to see and know more? I can arrange tours to wander around this fabulous building or can even book concerts and events with gourmet dining. I recently arranged for clients to have a VIP backstage tour of the Opera House, dinner with views over Sydney Harbour and top seats for the Nutcracker ballet. I can find the perfect tour for you too!
Cockatoo Island
This is my quirky suggestion of something to do whilst in Sydney! Located in the heart of Sydney Harbour, Cockatoo Island is just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extraordinary place where visitors can stay for an hour, the day, a night or longer. A former convict prison, dry dock and industrial work site, as well as a reformatory school for girls, Cockatoo Island is a fascinating place. I was also reliably informed on my recent trip to Sydney that it is really haunted! I can book a range of tours including Ghost yard - a paranormal tour and Haunted History tour.
There is so much more I can suggest to see and do in Sydney and as an Aussie Specialist with extensive first-hand knowledge of this fabulous city, I would love to chat with you to help you get the best from your trip, so please feel free to get in touch.