The Greatest Method To Spend 48 Hours

This publish might include affiliate hyperlinks. We might obtain a small fee, without charge to you, in the event you make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.

Two days isn’t a variety of time to spend in a metropolis as pulsing and thrilling as Sydney, however that doesn’t imply you’ll be able to’t take advantage of out of solely 48 hours!

With a lot to see and do, it’s not simple to pack all of the superb websites right into a 2 day Sydney itinerary.

And to be trustworthy, I want you had extra time as a result of Sydney deserves longer than two days, however I do know that we aren’t all blessed with a variety of time.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge lit up  during the Vivid Sydney Festival
Sydney Harbour Bridge at evening

If that is your first journey to Australia, it’s attainable that Sydney is your first cease and also you wish to get going.

For this reason I’ve ready an action-packed itinerary for two days in Sydney, so you’ll be able to see all of the highlights and the very best that Sydney has to supply.

This itinerary has historical past, seashores, world-famous monuments, and a few scrumptious meals stops.

Are 2 Days Sufficient For Sydney?

sydney opera house on sydney harbour

Two days isn’t a variety of time to discover Sydney, however in the event you’re ready to hurry, you’ll be able to see lots of its highlights.

With as a lot occurring as in Sydney, you’ll want a minimum of two full days, ideally three full days, so attempt to fly within the evening earlier than!

I might spend two weeks in Sydney and never get bored. I grew up an hour north of the town and would continuously go to the town and all the time discover one thing new and thrilling to do.

However I perceive that when you find yourself visiting from abroad, Sydney is normally the primary or final cease, and while you solely have 2 weeks in Australia, there may be the need to see as a lot as attainable.

Significantly in case you are visiting from the US the place most of you solely have an ordinary two-week trip.

With a lot to see on this huge land down beneath, most vacationers solely plan for a few days in Sydney earlier than hitting the Reef and the Outback.

For those who do determine you wish to keep longer, I’ve steered some methods to increase this itinerary in direction of the tip of this information.

Save on Sydney’s prime sights. The Sydney Sights FlexiPass permits you to go to 3,4,5 or 7 sights for one low worth. You may select from over 30 prime sights, or you’ll be able to construct your personal go in the event you already know what Sydney sights you wish to go to. Check prices and availability here.  

The Final 2 Day Sydney Itinerary

The next itinerary is how I might recommend spending two days in Sydney if I used to be visiting for the primary time. I’ve spent a lot time in Sydney, I couldn’t probably rely the variety of visits, and that is how I all the time advocate spending a few days to guests.

Nonetheless, this itinerary isn’t set in stone and may be tailor-made to your style and pursuits. There are some solutions for different actions that you just would possibly take pleasure in on the finish, particularly in the event you’re a nature lover or have children in your journey group.

So, use this as a information and regulate it to fit your wants, time-frame, and finances.

The primary day explores the unmissable highlights such because the Sydney Opera Home and The Rocks District, whereas the second day is a extra low-key, beachy day.

You would possibly wish to swap the times round, relying on how your jet lag is feeling and what you’re most excited to see.

Day 1: Unmissable Issues to Do in Sydney 

The primary day is about ticking off the highlights and most unmissable sights. These are the websites you merely can’t miss.

In case your lodging is within the Sydney CBD, you’ll be able to get up early and both have breakfast at your lodging or take into account Gowings Bar & Grill contained in the QT Hotel.

Then it’s time to move to…

Cease 1: Round Quay

boats coming into Circular Quay, Sydney, Australia
Don’t know what to do in Sydney? Begin right here at Round Quay!

One of the best place to start out your go to is in Round Quay, and in the event you solely visited one space in Sydney that is the place I might ship you!

The Quay is the principle transport hub of Sydney Harbour and it’s right here that two of Australia’s most iconic landmarks reside; the Sydney Opera Home and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Wander across the Quay and take an “I used to be right here” picture in entrance of those well-known constructions and really feel the heart beat of the town.

There’s most likely no different place that may jolt you awake out of your jet lag and have you ever saying to your self “hey, I’m in Australia!”

On any given day, particularly a sunny day, Round Quay is a superb place to stroll about or simply sit and watch the ferries come and go.

Being a busy transport hub you’ll additionally discover many out of doors cafes and eating places lining the harbour, so in the event you skip breakfast you’ll be able to seize a fast chunk right here!

Different locations of curiosity across the Quay embody Customs House and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Cease 2: Royal Botanic Gardens

Sydnney's Royal Botanic Garden - one of the best things to do in 48 hours.
picture credit score: Royal Botanic Backyard

From the jap suburbs of the bridge and Opera Home, you’ve quick access to the Royal Botanic Gardens, for my part, one of the spectacular gardens on the earth, actually from a location standpoint. 

You may’t beat the serenity and harbour views and it is a great spot to spend an hour or two in Sydney. Take a stroll across the gardens to admire the various various kinds of vegetation and metropolis views. You may also take a free self-guided strolling tour.

For those who’re into artwork, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is considered one of Australia’s main artwork museums with 5 ranges of artwork and in depth collections of Australian, Aboriginal, European, Asian and modern artwork. 

In case you have extra time, and love exploring on a motorcycle, you may enjoy this 2.5 hour bike tour that taks you thru the Botanic Gardens, Round Quay advert The Rocks! As these space’s are the very best of Sydney, you’ll be able to cowl extra floor on a motorcycle, and se emore.

Cease 3: Lunch within the CBD

There are a number of choices to eat in Sydney across the Quay and CBD, however I’m going to recommend these two.

Picnic lunch within the Botanic Gardens
view of sydney opera house with harbour bridge behind it from the royal botanic gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens

An inexpensive lunch choice is to seize some takeaway provides, and perhaps a bottle of wine, and incorporate it into your Botanical Gardens go to.

Choose a spot anyplace, or stroll to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for among the best vantage factors in Sydney with distant views of the Opera Home and Harbour Bridge (particularly superior for sundown).

Cafe Sydney
View of Sydney Harbour from Cafe Sydney
View of Sydney Harbour from Cafe Sydney. Picture credit score: Cafe Sydney

For one thing extra formal I like to recommend Cafe Sydney. Its prime place on the rooftop of Customs Home provides the very best of each worlds – spectacular elevated views of the harbour, the Opera Home, and Harbour Bridge.

And you’ll take pleasure in trendy Australian delicacies and perhaps a cheeky cocktail on the out of doors terrace. 

Cease 4: Stroll throughout the Sydney Harbour Bridge

View of Sydney walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge
View of Sydney Harbour and Opera Home from strolling throughout the bridge

Now that you just’re rested with a full tummy it’s time to stretch your legs once more.

I recommend a stroll throughout the bridge, however in fact, if you would like the expertise of a lifetime by climbing over the Sydney Harbour Bridge you undoubtedly must e-book forward.

Don’t simply rock up anticipating to tick this off your checklist, it’s very talked-about. A dawn or sundown bridge climb can be magical. 

Nonetheless, a less expensive choice (free) is to easily stroll throughout the pedestrian path and soak up the identical panoramic views on a decrease stage.

Or go to the Pylon Lookout the place you get unbelievable views plus 3 ranges of reveals to study concerning the historical past of the Bridge.

Cease 5: Discover The Rocks District

tables and chairs on foorpath outside australia hotel in the rocks

The Rocks District is a historic space of Sydney close to Round Quay, and my favorite a part of the Sydney CBD space.

There’s a narrative round each nook while you stroll the cobblestone streets, browse the weekend markets, and stroll alongside the harbour.

Pop into the Rocks Discovery Museum and spend a while on the three flooring studying extra concerning the historical past of the world and the tales of those that lived there in the course of the early years of white Australia.

The Rocks District offers impressive views of Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Rocks District provides spectacular views of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Picture: Shutterstock.com

Feely thirsty in spite of everything this strolling? The Rocks is the right place to go on a little bit of a pub crawl, because it’s residence to a few of Sydney’s oldest pubs. Seize a pint at one, or all of my favourites:

Cease 6: Dinner in The Rocks

You’ve had an enormous day so now it’s time to place your toes up for a bit.

I’d recommend both staying within the Rocks for some good pub grub or taking the brief stroll again to Round Quay for sundown drinks and a chunk to eat from among the world’s finest waterfront eating places.

Within the Rocks, the Australian Heritage Hotel is legendary for its kangaroo, emu, and crocodile pizzas. So if you wish to attempt actual Aussie tucker this pub is the place it’s at.

Opera Bar, Sydney
Opera Bar location and look at. Picture credit score: Shutterstock.com

Again on the Quay, a prime spot for a sundowner is the Opera Bar. What a method to finish your first day than with a cocktail or chilly beer and uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge.!

For effective eating and extra of these well-known views (you’ll must dig into your pockets) e-book a desk at both Aria, Quay Restaurant, or Cafe Sydney in the event you didn’t do lunch.

And there’s additionally the well-known Tetsuya’s

Day 2: Seashores and Pure Magnificence

With one other full day forward, I encourage you to rise early and both seize breakfast at your resort or head to this morning’s first vacation spot – Bondi Seaside.

Cease 1: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Stroll

aeiral view of the aqua water of bondi beach and moss covered rocks on the golden sand
Bondi Seaside, Sydney’s most well-known seaside. Picture: Shutterstock.com

Bondi is Sydney’s most well-known seaside, and in the event you haven’t eaten but, you will get an honest breakfast on the family-friendly Invoice’s Cafe.

To get to Bondi, catch the practice from Central Station to Bondi Junction, then a bus to Bondi Seaside. 

From right here, you’ll take the brief and candy Bondi to Coogee Coastal Stroll, which is considered one of my favorite free issues to do in Sydney. 

A surprising coastal stroll and the right method to spend a beautiful few hours in Sydney

girls walking on the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, trail

The 6km stroll begins behind Bondi Icebergs and normally takes us 2.5 hours with the youngsters, and options beautiful views of cliffs, bays, and rock swimming pools and passes the seashores of Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, and Gordon’s Bay. 

And don’t overlook your swimmers if it’s heat – the Bronte Baths is an efficient spot for the youngsters.

Cease 2: Lunch in Coogee

icebergs swimming pools on edge of ocean
Bondi Icebergs | Credit score Vacation spot nSW

Relying on what time you begin and end your stroll, in the event you arrive in Coogee Seaside round lunch take into account the Coogee Pavillion.

Or, if you wish to do the loop stroll and head again to Bondi, have lunch on the well-known Bondi Icebergs for some okay meals however the very best views over Bondi Seaside (that is the place Oprah Winfrey dined on her go to).

We choose the bistro over the restaurant.

If you wish to head straight again to the town for lunch take the bus quantity 372 or 373 or name an Uber.

Cease 3: Ferry to Manly from Round Quay

View of Sydney Opera House from the Manly Ferry
The view from the Manly ferry

You may’t go to among the best harbour cities on the earth and never get out on the water!

An important and low cost method to expertise Sydney Harbour with beautiful views of the town skyline, Opera Home, Harbour Bridge, and Botanic Gardens is to catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly and again.

homes on the cliff at shelley beach manly
Manly Seaside to Shelly Seaside stroll

In Manly, stroll down the palm tree-lined Corso, hit the promenade on the seaside for ice cream, stroll round to picturesque Shelly Seaside, or seize a chilly beer at Manly Wharf Lodge.

Time your return ferry journey again to the Quay to coincide with the sundown behind the harbour bridge.

Cease 4: Dinner within the CBD

people liinging up for pies at Harry’s Cafe De Wheels

What to do in Sydney for dinner on day two? Properly, you’ll be able to go fancy once more or go informal.

Think about one of many different choices from day one, or for reasonable eats take into account family-friendly Chinatown or seize a pie, pastie, or sizzling canine at an Australian icon known as Harry’s Cafe De Wheels.

They’re well-known for his or her pies and sizzling canine and make for an ideal place to eat due to the handy places in Woolloomooloo and Haymarket.

One other place to splurge and get these particular Sydney views is Altitude Restaurant, positioned 36 ranges above Sydney within the Shangri-La Hotel, providing beautiful views of the town within the evenings.

Easy methods to Lengthen this Itinerary

Taronga Zoo in Sydney Harbour

For those who determine 2 days isn’t sufficient, then listed here are another locations you’ll be able to go to in case you have extra time.

  • Surf at Bondi Seaside. In case you have extra time, I might spend it by the ocean. You may take a browsing lesson or hire a board and hit the waves at Bondi.
  • Take the ferry to Watsons Bay. This can be a great spot to seek out extra relaxed and quiet seashores away from the crowds of Bondi. Permit a minimum of half a day for this.
  • Take day journeys. There are lots of locations you’ll be able to go to on a day journey from Sydney, equivalent to Hunter Valley wine area, the Royal Nationwide Park, Featherdale Wildlife Park and Scenic World, and naturally, The Blue Mountains and close by city of Katoomba. See extra concepts for day journeys from Sydney
  • Go to Bronte Seaside. Escape the hustle and bustle of the town and loosen up at one of the lovely seashores close to Sydney.
  • Take the youngsters to Taronga Zoo. In case your children love zoos, they are going to love the Taronga Zoo which has each Aussie animals and worldwide animals. The Sea Life Sydney Aquarium can also be an ideal place to see animals.
  • Watch the sundown from Sydney Tower Eye. That is simply an remark deck and an ideal place to see some views. For those who’re brief on time, you’ll be able to skip it and see superb views from the Shangri-La rooftop restaurant as a substitute, however in case you have extra time it’s one thing to think about.
  • Discover the procuring district/Central CBD. The world round Darling Harbour is nice for procuring and the place you can find numerous boutiques. It’s additionally the place some historic buildings may be discovered equivalent to Queen Victoria Constructing and the City Corridor, in addition to the plush Hyde Park, a tranquil city escape that’s supreme for a picnic.
  • Take the youngsters to Luna Park. In case you have children, they might take pleasure in Luna Park, a heritage-listed amusement park. It’s finest to go at evening when it’s all lit up and magical!

Easy methods to Get To Sydney CBD From The Airport

cars and a train on a road
approaching from Milsons Level facet

Okay, if it’s your first time in Sydney, let’s rapidly cowl the way you get to the CBD (central enterprise district), also referred to as the town centre, from the airport.

To get your self from the airport into the town, you’ve a few choices; hop on the Sydney Airport Link Train which takes quarter-hour to the CBD.

I like to recommend you get your self an Opal Card, which is a brilliant card you’ll be able to prime up and use to pay for fares on public transportation equivalent to trains, buses, ferries, and light-weight rail.

In terms of getting across the metropolis, the very best and least expensive method to see Sydney is on foot.

A number of of Sydney’s highlights may be taken in at no cost or low cost just by strolling round.

The place to Keep in Sydney

On a brief keep in Sydney, you wish to maximize your time within the metropolis and base your self close to all of the sights.

Your finest wager is to find your self in and across the CBD, Round Quay, or The Rocks District.

This implies you’ll be able to stroll to most of the prime sights such because the UNESCO World Heritage website, Sydney Opera Home and Sydney Harbour Bridge, while nonetheless being in a vibrant and thrilling space.

Think about these finances, mid-level, or luxurious inns in these central places.

Funds:

Mid-Degree:

All these properties are within the CBD or Round Quay space:

Luxurious:

All these properties are within the CBD or Round Quay space:

Earlier than You Go

There you’ve it, that is how I recommend you spend two days in Sydney! This itinerary ought to hold you busy.

This itinerary takes within the highlights of Sydney for the period of time you’ve, however hopefully it has additionally given you some inspiration to come back again when you’ve extra time!

Earlier than you go, do not forget that the weekend is costlier and inns and sights are inclined to get booked up prematurely.

For those who plan to go to on a Saturday and Sunday, save your self time and cash by reserving lodging and sights prematurely to keep away from disappointment.

Extra Sydney Journey Suggestions

Staying longer than 48 hours? Then these different assets could also be helpful to you…

Pin To Save On Pinterest

Do you’ve any tips about what to do in Sydney? Share any solutions within the feedback under!