Discovering Sydney: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Australia's Vibrant Harbor City
Discovering Sydney: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Australia's Vibrant Harbor City
Mariana Gonzalez
I always believe that when traveling to new places, you must do all the touristy things, but you should also spend sometime experiencing the place like locals do. In this guide, you will find must do things and places to eat at in Sydney from a local and touristy experience. You will find several recommendations that will make your experience more than unique in this vibrant harbor city.
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Must Do: Tourist Experience
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Sydney Opera House
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Of course this is a MUST. Either by simply walking by and enjoying the view all around or by entering the opera house. The only way to visit the inside of the opera house is by scheduling a tour or purchasing a ticket for a performance. I highly encourage you to try both or any of the two to gain a deeper experience.
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BridgeClimb Sydney
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This one might not be for everybody, depending on how you feel about heights, but it's truly a remarkable experience.
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Taronga Zoo Sydney
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This amazing zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe. You'll be able to observe and learn about a diverse range of species from majestic elephants to fascinating reptiles and colorful birds.
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Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
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If you are a nature lover, you will truly appreciate this place. The garden is home to an impressive collection of plants and offers a serene atmosphere with lots of tranquility and natural beauty.
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Darling Harbour
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This is a very lively place where you can find lots of entertainment. Variety of restaurants to eat from, many leisure activities to engage in, family-friendly attractions, just a little bit of everything in one place.
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Beaches
Keep in mind that in all of these beaches, they do not have beach service, make sure you bring your own umbrella, towels, chairs, snacks and drinks. There are restaurants near by but not in the actual beach.
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Bondi Beach
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One of the most iconic beaches in Sydney. If you are down for an adventure, I encourage you to take surfing clases here, another great outdoor activity.
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Manly Beach
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Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, known as The Corso, where you'll find an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines.
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Must Do: Non-Tourist Experience
Sydney Markets
Explore different markets in Sydney that locals love visiting and shopping from.
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Markets at Glebe
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Saturday farmer's market is a whole adventure. You'll find a little bit of everything, from artwork to food, home goods and many more. Great place to get lost and explore!
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Marrickville Organic Food Market
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This one is a Sunday market. Lots to explore around.
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Paddington Markets
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Another Saturday market to visit. Lots of local craftspeople and designers. Enjoy!
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Hiking
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Blue Mountains
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No matter what your hiking level is, there are different trails to all levels. One of the most iconic trails is The National Pass, which takes you through sandstone cliffs and magnificent views of the Jamison Valley.
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Barrenjoey Lighthouse
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This is a walk from Palm Beach up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse. The views are breathtaking and worth every second of this walk. Some people get lucky enough with whale watching during winter and early spring!
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Bondi to Coogee coastal walk Self-Guided walking tour
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Unique outdoor activity which offers stunning ocean views. I would recommend going during sunrise to appreciate this famous beach without crowds of tourists.
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Beaches
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Cronulla Beach
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It is about an hour away in train and farther away from the crowded city. If you are looking for a quieter and slower pace beach, this is the one for you.
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Balmoral Beach
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Another visited beach by locals. It is located in the prestigious suburb of Mosman in Sydney. It is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling and other water activities.
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One of the fave things to do: eat
Sydney is home to a diverse Asian community, and this diversity is reflected not only in the vibrant neighborhoods, cultural festivals, but also in cuisine.
Here are some of the most popular Asian restaurants in Sydney.
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Porkfat Thai Restaurant Sydney
@mariana4294967292
If you would like to have an authentic Thai food experience, I would definitely recommend checking this place out. Don't forget to order Tamarind wings, you won't regret it. Reservation online is highly suggested.
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Mamak Haymarket
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A popular Malaysian eatery, Mamak specializes in authentic street food-style dishes. It's known for its delectable roti bread, flavorful curries, and vibrant atmosphere.
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TAO Restaurant and Bar SYDNEY
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Cantonese cuisine with Chinese influence. Love the decoration, food and cocktails. Must try: Plum duck
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Goji Modern Asian Cuisine Sydney
@mariana4294967292
If you were looking for a place with dumplings, this is the place for you. They have unique cocktails and offer a variety of dishes.
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Other highly recommended restaurants
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Braza Churrascaria
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This is a brazilian barbecue experience that offers a variety of delicious meat. Must try: pineapple with cinnamon
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Max Brenner
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This place is a chocolate lover dream! If you have a sweet tooth like I do, I promise you won't regret this place.
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The Little Snail Restaurant
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The name says it all. It is a French restaurant that serves the best escargot out there. Desserts are breathtaking inside and outside.
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Vegan options
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Yulli's
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It is considered one of the best vegan places to eat at by vegan and non-vegan people. Amazing dishes to choose from.
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Shift Eatery
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Nothing better than an all-day breakfast place. Lots of sandwiches, salads and smoothies to choose from.
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