Sydney is a great place to kick off your Australian travels. As the largest city in the country, and often described as the one of the most beautiful cities in the world you definitely won’t be disappointed about what you find here.

I would recommend allocating at least four days if you want to explore all of Sydney, Australia. However, if you don’t have that much time spare, I’ve put together a 48 hour itinerary to make sure you get the most of your trip!

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DAY 1

10 AM

If you’ve just gotten off of a long haul flight, then it’s time to stretch your legs and enjoy the breathtaking Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This walk follows a six km path that wraps around the coast at the edge of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, which will have you taking in the views and exploring the rock pools, beaches and parks you will pass on your trip. Once you get to Coogee take a stroll down the main road and pick one of the cosy cafes to grab a coffee or some breakfast. My favourite breakfast spot in Coogee is The Little Kitchen. A must try is the Grilled Chorizo with fire-roasted peppers – Delicious!

1PM

Give your legs a rest as you continue your explorations to North Sydney. Manly is a suburb in North Sydney that embraces the perfect work and life balance, with beaches among their business district. Do yourself a favour and catch the 30 minute ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Wharf.

Not only will you get to experience all that Manly has to offer but on your journey across the harbour you will get outstanding views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Kirribilli House. Pack your camera, because you’re going to want to Instagram this!

6PM

Embrace the Aussie spirit, and get yourself to a big sports event. The heritage-listed Sydney Cricket Ground hosts some of the most exciting sports in all of Sydney and it’s a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the Australian sport culture.

The Australian Football League’s (AFL) season lasts from March to September, so do some research before you leave home and see if you can fit a game somewhere into your trip. Choose your team and start cheering with the other 40,000 passionate fans!

DAY 2

11AM

Things can get a little wild at sporting events in Australia, so you’re going to need to get in a great breakfast to get you going this morning. Surry Hills is a buzzing inner city neighbourhood, just a stroll from Sydney’s Central Station.

Take some time to make your way through the streets of Surry Hills where you will find busy cafes, creative restaurants, and eclectic bars. Home to several art galleries and Belvoir Street Theatre, this fascinating area has something for everyone. Pick one of the many cafes that are dotted along the popular streets and enjoy people watching. I love Bills! I recommend trying the Ricotta Pancakes with Banana and Honeycomb Butter!

3PM

The Rocks district, located just next to Circular Quay is an area full of history with a story to tell around each corner. With cobblestone streets, cute cafes, boutique stores and some of the country’s oldest pubs, this is definitely a place to come and explore. If you want to have a drink or two and take in the view, check out The Glenmore Hotel rooftop bar.

7PM

Sydney’s Chinatown is extravagant and if you like Asian food then you definitely want to make the trip, just a few blocks from Sydney’s George Street. You are spoiled for choice when it comes to Asian cuisine here as there are several restaurants and eateries, all offering something a little different.

Visiting the area at night is perfect, this way you’ll be able to see the streets all lit up, and the crowds of hungry people walking up and down the street making dinner selections. Whether you feel like heading to a trendy Teppanyaki place, a sushi train, or just a casual bar, you are bound to find exactly what you like here. There is truly something for everyone!

My number one choice in Chinatown Sydney is Mamak. Be prepared to wait in line but boy its worth the wait. You just have to order the Roti, because that’s why everyone loves this place!

Sydney, Australia is a spectacular city, with so much to offer! It’s definitely worth the trip. Hopefully you’ll have more than 48 hours to spend in Sydney, but if you don’t this is a great way to explore a lot in a limited time frame!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Bourke

I’m Olivia, an adventurous traveler who just wants to explore all the world has to offer. I’m an American who has slowly made my way to the beautiful land down under, Australia and I’m loving every minute of exploring this ever so scenic country, one state at a time. With my feet moving and my fingers typing, I love sharing all the gems that I discover with the world so they can enjoy them as well! Check out my blog – Great Lost!