Many of Sydney’s most famous sights are just a few steps from where cruise ships dock at the Overseas Passenger Terminal. (If you’re lucky, you might even have a five-star view of the Sydney Opera House from your cabin window.) Take a stroll around the shores of Sydney Harbour and soak up the city’s most spectacular attractions.
Sydney Opera House
One of the most famous buildings in the world, the Sydney Opera House is an instantly recognisable symbol of the city. Take the short walk from the Overseas Passenger Terminal or a 10-minute ride from White Bay. MUST DO: Take a selfie from the forecourt.
Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Affectionately known as The Coathanger, this famous Bridge has been spanning two sides of Sydney for more than 100 years. It offers a unique perspective on the city below.
MUST DO: A lap of the bridge using both pedestrian footpaths that run either side.
3 Cumberland St, The Rocks, (02) 8274 7777, bridgeclimb.com
Royal Botanic Garden & The Domain
The oldest botanic garden in the country, made up of 15 themed gardens that house more than 27,000 plants from around the world.
MUST DO: A bush tucker tour showcasing our Indigenous ingredients that have sustained people here for millenia.
Royal Botanic Garden, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney, (02) 9231 8111, botanicgardens.org.au
Darling Quarter & Darling Square
A buzzy series of laneways and plazas home to some of the city’s best eats. There’s also an excellent playground and water play area, and regular festivals or live music. MUST DO: Try the unique food offerings or take in the sunset with a glass of bubbles in hand at the Softel.
darlingquarter.com; darlingsq.com
Barangaroo & Walsh Bay
Barangaroo is a glittering strip running along the western edge of Darling Harbour, and the city’s newest destination, where office skyscrapers tower over great bars and classy restaurants.
Nearby Walsh Bay is an historic neighbourhood of repurposed wharves dating back to the mid-1800s that house a hub of arts and culture, plus hidden waterside bars and restaurants.
barangaroo.com; walshbay.com.au
Woolloomooloo
Enjoy a long lunch at one of the stylish restaurants that line this revitalised wharf precincts or have a swim in the stunning Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, perched right on the edge of the water.
Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023
The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is an annual event hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia starting Tuesday, December 26. Try to find a Harbour vantage point on Boxing Day to watch the super yachts, and a range of other smaller contenders, as they depart Sydney for Hobart.
Superyacht M.Y. Sea Raes
Luxury superyacht M.Y. Sea Raes is literally a floating version of boutique icon hotel Raes on Wategos in Byron Bay. Available for day hire, or overnight or private charters on Sydney Harbour, the 101ft tri-deck design accommodates up to eight guests overnight and up to 30 guests for day charters. Raes’ award-winning, two-hatted executive chef Jason Saxby offers local produce in his award-winning cuisine.
