There are such a lot of wonderful free issues to do in Sydney, Australia’s hottest metropolis and the center of New South Wales! These are just a few of our favorite!
For many travellers who go to Australia, their huge journey Down Underneath begins in Sydney. The nation’s most populated metropolis is actually stunning, with a shocking skyline, fascinating harbour, world-class seashores and top-quality museums.
Sydney can also be very multi-cultural, giving it a vibrant and youthful environment.
It may be very overwhelming for the first-time customer to get their head round what to do in Sydney.
With so many epic points of interest, the place ought to one begin? And sadly, Australia will not be an affordable vacation spot.
So for anybody backpacking in Sydney it may be fairly tough to determine what actions received’t break the financial institution.
READ MORE: Spending just a few days within the metropolis? Try our complete Sydney itinerary information!
Free Issues to Do in Sydney
Though we all know Sydney properly, each time we return we at all times discover new issues to do.
This time round we determined to base ourselves within the metropolis and attempt to discover one of the best methods to spend just a few days with out handing over a lot cash.
After just a few days of analysis, we figured it out. We’ve put collectively this nice information on 16 issues to do in Sydney without charge – from taking a free strolling tour of town to trying out an superior artwork gallery to mountain climbing across the seashores and every thing in between.
From the Royal Botanic Gardens, to the Museum of Up to date Artwork, to Darling Harbour, Centennial Park, and free strolling excursions, there are such a lot of free points of interest in Sydney metropolis.
1) Go On A Free Guided Tour
Similar to elsewhere all over the world, there are some nice locations to discover a free strolling tour in Sydney. It’s a excellent technique to be taught concerning the metropolis’s historical past and get some secret insider ideas from a neighborhood.
In the event you’ve ever been on a free strolling tour in Europe then you understand precisely how they work. You be part of an organised group at a delegated assembly spot and stroll round for 2-3 hours or so with a few breaks in between.
There’s no price to hitch a strolling tour. However on the finish of the guided tour, you possibly can depart a donation at your discretion. In Sydney, there’s normally a strolling tour within the morning and one within the afternoon.
Be sure to put on good strolling sneakers!
Listed here are two firms that present free strolling excursions round Sydney, and so they function each day:
I’m Free Sydney
- Occasions:
- 10:30 and 14:30 (Sydney Tour)
- 18:00 (The Rocks Tour)
- Assembly Level:
- City Corridor Sq. (Sydney Tour)
- Cadmans Cottage (Rocks Tour)
- Try their web site for extra info
Free Excursions Sydney
- Occasions:
- Could – October: 10:30
- November – April : 10:30am & 14:30
- Assembly Level:
- Close to Archibald Fountain at Hyde Park each day at 10.30.
- Search for a tour information in an orange t-shirt.
- Try their web site for extra info.
READ MORE: Every little thing it’s worthwhile to learn about Australia journey in our new information!
2) Take A Stroll By way of The Queen Victoria Constructing
The attractive Queen Victoria Constructing was inbuilt 1898, and through the years has developed into a complete bunch of various issues:
The Sydney Markets, a live performance corridor, the Metropolis Library, workplaces for the Metropolis Council.
At one level it was almost demolished, and at the moment is a vibrant advanced that’s occupied by 150 retail shops, cafes and eating places over 4 flooring.
Queen Victoria Constructing is open from 09:00 to 18:00 every day. The easiest way to take pleasure in it’s to easily have a espresso and take all of it in. In the event you want it there’s free Web now accessible inside.
In case you are nonetheless within the constructing and its historical past, you possibly can be part of a tour for AU$15 per particular person, and it’s about 45 minutes lengthy.
The tour begins at 11:30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Simply go and see the Concierge Desk on the bottom flooring.
One other good thing to do is to discover the remainder of the constructing and head as much as Stage 3. Up right here you possibly can see the 2 clocks chime each hour.
The Royal Clock reveals scenes of English royalty from King John signing the Magna Carta to the execution of King Charles I. This clock chimes on the hour from 9 am till 9 pm.
The Nice Australian Clock contains 33 scenes from Australian historical past seen from each Aboriginal and European views.
- Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
- Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:00 – 17:00
- Location: 455 George Avenue (Subsequent to the City Corridor)
- Nearest Prepare Station: City Corridor
READ MORE: Brief on time? Try our journey information on the best way to spend in the future in Sydney!
3) Get Misplaced In The Royal Botanic Gardens
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Sydney is to take a stroll by means of it is a beautiful backyard, escape the hustle and bustle and odor the flowers, actually.
The Royal Botanic Gardens are positioned close to the Sydney Harbour Opera Home and has some of one of the best views of town and Sydney Harbour.
In case you are actually into vegetation or wish to discover out extra concerning the gardens, take a look at the Royal Botanic Gardens Customer Centre.
There are even free guided walks from the centre, or you possibly can observe a self-guided tour.
The Royal Botanic Gardens are a Sydney must-see!
The hours are completely different each season, however the Gardens are open each day. Try their web site for probably the most correct hours.
- Nearest Prepare Stations: Martin Place or Round Quay
4) Do the Coogee to Bondi Coastal Stroll
In the event you’re the form of one that loves getting outdoor, then Sydney is an ideal place for you!
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Sydney is to simply exit and discover all of the wonderful mountain climbing trails that wind their approach across the metropolis.
The one which shouldn’t be missed is the well-known Coogee to Bondi stroll that follows the shoreline. This beautiful hike goes for 6km and connects a few of Sydney’s most well-known seashores.
There are epic views, funky cafes, fairly parklands, secluded coves and naturally white sand seashores to swim at.
It truly begins in Maroubra and ends in Bondi Seaside. However you are able to do it in both course (we advocate ending in Bondi).
It isn’t a strenuous hike, however ensure you carry water with you. There are many locations you possibly can replenish your water bottle alongside the best way too.
If you wish to take advantage of this epic beachside location, why not determine to keep at Mad Monkey Hostels proper on Coogee Seaside? It’s the latest and most epic hostel in Sydney!
- Getting There: Take a bus to both Bondi Seaside or Coogee Seaside
Notice: There’s no direct transport connecting Bondi and Coogee. Take bus 313 or 314 between Coogee and Bondi Junction. From town take a prepare to Bondi Junction.
5) Dangle Out At Manly Seaside
Whereas Bondi Seaside is by far probably the most well-known seashore in Australia, we personally imagine Manly Seaside is far, a lot better (which is why we inform everybody to go there when recommending the greatest seashores in Sydney).
On a sizzling day (and particularly on a weekend) you will see that fairly actually 1000’s and 1000’s of individuals unfold out all over at Bondi, whereas Manly has a way more chilled vibe and higher alternatives to flee the crowds.
The attraction in Manly is the completely stunning setting, with clear yellow sand, towering timber, a enjoyable boardwalk and wonderful cafes and eating places the whole size of the seashore.
The Corso is the pedestrian mall that leads as much as the seashore, with tonnes of nice outlets and galleries in each nook and cranny.
Manly can also be one of the best jumping-off level to discover extra of Sydney’s Northern Seashores, which is likely one of the nicest locations in all of New South Wales.
Make a day of it and head over on the ferry. And our tip – it’s higher to be taught to surf in Manly than Bondi. A fantastic day journey from Sydney.
As all seashores are free in Sydney, different cool spots to take a look at embrace Palm Seaside, Shelly Seaside, or any of the seashores within the Royal Nationwide Park.
- Location: North Steyne Highway, Manly
- Getting There: Soar on board the ferry from Round Quay to go to Manly. This additionally provides you an amazing alternative to expertise the sensational views of Sydney Harbour from the water.
6) Stroll By way of Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a beautiful inexperienced area unfold out over 40 acres proper within the coronary heart of Sydney. It’s additionally the oldest public park within the metropolis!
Hyde Park is surrounded by a number of the greatest issues to do in Sydney, akin to St Mary’s Cathedral (under) and the Archibald Fountain within the centre of the park.
On a sunny day, yow will discover a lot of Sydney-siders chilling out on their lunch breaks, feeding the birds and simply enjoyable.
- Location: Elizabeth Avenue
- Nearest Prepare Stations: Museum Station or St James Station
7) Admire The Structure Of St Mary’s Cathedral
The St Mary’s Cathedral on Faculty Avenue on the finish of Hyde Park is the oldest church in Australia.
The thought for the church was first developed when Captain Arthur Phillip settled in Australia again in 1788, nevertheless it wasn’t till 1821 that development first started.
The unique St Mary’s Cathedral was truly destroyed by hearth in 1865. In 1868 the brand new church began to be constructed however grew to become an ongoing venture that didn’t end till 2000.
Right this moment with its spectacular Gothic-style design and distinguished location, it’s a great place to go to.
Be sure to go inside to take a look at the stained glass panels and big pipe organs. The doorway doesn’t price something, which is why it’s on our free issues to do in Sydney information.
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 08.30 – 17:00
- Location: Within the coronary heart of the CBD on St Mary’s Highway
- Nearest Prepare Station: St James Station
8) Pay attention To The Buskers At Round Quay
Sydney sightseeing isn’t full with no go to to the Round Quay on the coronary heart of Sydney Harbour.
Round Quay holds the title for being Sydney’s most Instagrammed place.
This sensational harbourside location is continually buzzing with individuals who bask within the unrivalled views of the Sydney Opera Home and the Harbour Bridge.
It’s also the spot to leap on a ferry to Manly, North Sydney or Darling Harbour.
In addition to the large variety of cafes and eating places round Round Quay, certainly one of our favorite issues to do in Sydney is benefit from the Aboriginal music that the buskers play in the course of the day.
Each time we stroll across the space we cease by subsequent to the piers and take heed to the hypnotising sounds of the didgeridoo from the very proficient indigenous musicians who hang around.
In the event you’ve acquired some cash in your pocket ensure you depart a donation. Or if you happen to’re actually in love with the music you should purchase their albums.
In any other case benefit from the splendid environment that Australia’s conventional instrument creates.
9) Wander Across the Sydney Opera Home
Alongside the Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera Home is Sydney’s most well-known landmark.
Completely positioned on Bennelong Level on the finish of Round Quay, the Sydney Opera Home has epic views over the harbour and in direction of the bridge.
Designed by award-winning Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the Sydney Opera Home was formally opened on the twentieth of October, 1973.
It is likely one of the most well-known efficiency halls in the whole world, and greater than 1.2 million individuals attend live shows, performs, theatre reveals and symphonies on the venue each single yr.
Getting up near this murals is an excellent expertise, and top-of-the-line issues to do in Sydney and all of New South Wales.
In the event you’re eager about going contained in the Opera Home, there are a complete vary of wonderful excursions you are able to do. If not, simply admiring from the surface is likely one of the greatest free issues to do in Sydney.
- Location: Bennelong Level, Round Quay
- Nearest Prepare Station: Round Quay
10) Take pleasure in an Artwork Gallery
The truth that you possibly can take pleasure in a number of the most wonderful artwork galleries within the nation with out spending a dime is superior!
Each the Artwork Gallery of New South Wales and the Museum of Up to date Artwork Australia are fully free to enter.
Every artwork gallery could be very completely different and vastly fascinating. Even in case you are not an artwork lover, simply take somewhat peek inside and you’ll be stunned.
The Artwork Gallery of NSW is a set of recent, indigenous and modern artwork displayed in a brilliant cool classical-style constructing, based in 1871.
The Museum of Up to date Artwork is a cool constructing down by the water close to Round Quay.
A few of the reveals do require an entrance payment, and these change each few months. It’s price checking to see what’s on whenever you get to every artwork gallery.
- Artwork Gallery of NSW
- Location: Artwork Gallery Rd. Close to the Botanical Gardens
- Nearest Prepare Station: St James Station
- Museum of Up to date Artwork Australia
- Location: George Avenue
- Nearest Prepare Station: Round Quay
11) Stroll Over the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge prices fairly some huge cash. However strolling throughout it doesn’t price a penny!
That is certainly one of Sydney’s largest icons, and undoubtedly shouldn’t be missed!
There’s a strolling path on both facet of the Sydney Harbour Bridge so you possibly can take pleasure in completely different views of harbour.
The bridge was opened on the nineteenth March 1932 and joins the Sydney CBD throughout the Sydney Harbour to the North Shore.
There are 8 lanes for motor visitors and two rail traces.
Like everybody and every thing in Australia, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has a nickname: “The Coathanger.”
That is due to its arch-based design. The arch has a whooping span of 504m and reaches 134m above sea degree.
It took 1400 males eight years to construct the bridge and value 4.2 million {dollars}. Once you stroll throughout it, you might be surrounded by 53’000 tonnes of metal. So loopy.
- Location: Sydney Harbour. Belief us, you’ll see it.
- Nearest Prepare Stations: Milsons Level Station (Northside)
12) Be taught Some Historical past on the Rocks Discovery Centre
We spent a stunning period of time on this 3-story museum studying concerning the historical past and tales of The Rocks, from pre-European days proper by means of to at the moment.
In case you don’t know, The Rocks is a historic suburb of Sydney, positioned proper on the harbour and close to Round Quay.
It was fairly a poor, soiled neighbourhood reserved for the working class. However at the moment it’s a hip and classy location with a number of the greatest bars and eating places in the whole nation discovered contained in the outdated, brickwork buildings.
The Rocks Discovery Centre is free, family-friendly and is housed in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse. The reveals are very well achieved making it really feel like you might be again time.
Including to the training are sections with contact screens, audio and visible parts to carry historical past alive. We extremely advocate visiting this museum as one of many nice free issues to do in Sydney!
- Hours: Open every day from 10:00 – 17:00 (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)
- Location: Kendall Lane, The Rocks (enter by way of Argyle Avenue)
- Nearest Prepare Station: Round Quay Station
13) Have a Romantic Second at Observatory Hill
Observatory Hill is a really romantic place to benefit from the sweeping panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour.
Carry some cheese and crackers and chill whereas the world goes by. It’s a grassy park with public paintings, a rotunda, tennis courtroom and bathrooms.
It doesn’t get a lot better right here than within the night throughout sundown when town is lit up fantastically and the views are magical.
- Location: Higher Fort St, Millers Level
- Nearest Prepare Station: Round Quay
14) Verify Out Some Markets
Sydney is known for its weekend markets. And even if you happen to aren’t within the temper to purchase something it’s at all times price stopping by to verify them out.
A few of the hottest ones are listed under.
Paddy’s Markets
Certainly one of Sydney’s hottest markets the place yow will discover distinctive souvenirs, some nice garments or some meals to deal with your style buds. It actually does have all of it.
- Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
- Nearest Prepare Station: City Corridor or Central Stations. Stroll to the market.
The Rocks Markets
This weekend market is a superb place to stroll round, purchase some goodies or have a espresso and take all of it in.
Mix it with a tour of The Rocks and get misplaced wandering across the alleyways between the outdated buildings.
- Hours: Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Nearest Prepare Station: Round Quay
Bondi Markets
One other nice weekend market, Bondi Markets has every thing from classic clothes to retro furnishings to home made jewelry to arts and crafts.
In order for you one thing distinctive and old-fashioned then that is your market.
Situated a brief stroll from the well-known Bondi Seaside, you will see that a vibrant, occurring, festive occasion on the weekends.
- Hours:
- Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00
- Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00
- Location: Bondi Seaside Main Faculty, Campbell Parade, Bondi
- Getting There: Get the prepare to Bondi Junction, then the 333 bus to Bondi Seaside. Stroll to the markets.
Rozelle Collectors Market
Rozelle Collector’s Market is open on the weekend-only as properly. It’s an open-air market that includes used and classic style stalls and meals distributors.
The market is certainly one of Sydney’s favorite pre-loved vintage, classic and retro market. Stallholders have been promoting secondhand gear right here for over 20 years.
As they are saying, somebody’s trash is another person’s treasure, and we’re sure you will see that an actual treasure right here!
- Hours: Saturday and Sunday 09:00 – 15:00
- Location: Rozelle Public Faculty, 663 Darling Avenue, Sydney
- Getting There: Take bus routes 440, 433, 445, or any bus within the 500’s.
15) Have a Picnic in Bicentennial Park
In case you are coming to Australia then you definately simply need to have a picnic or a barbecue! Often called “barbies”, these get-togethers are what we Aussies do greatest!
Bicentennial Park is 40 hectares of gorgeous parkland simply ready to be loved. From mangrove wetlands to light rolling hills to lakeside meadows and a lot extra, you really want to go see it for your self.
It’s about an hour on the prepare so we advocate spending the afternoon there and benefiting from it.
There are all of the services you might ever want akin to picnic shelters, FREE electrical BBQs, playgrounds, bathrooms. And if you happen to determine to drive there’s loads of parking.
It’s a stunning place to get away from the busyness of town and take within the contemporary air.
There are numerous paths to stroll round and you’ll even take the steps to the highest of the Treillage Tower for an amazing view over the wetlands, Homebush Bay and metropolis skyline.
In order for you a break from all of your strolling, have a espresso or a snack on the café. If you wish to get round on two wheels there’s a bike rent store there on your comfort.
Do hold a watch out on their occasions calendar, as there are a number of occasions on close to the park in the course of the yr.
- Hours: Day by day from 06:00 – 19:30
- Location: Herb Elliott Avenue, Homebush Bay
- Nearest Prepare Station: Olympic Park Station or Harmony West Prepare Station
16) Discover Centennial Park
Centennial Park, wedged between the cities of Sydney and Randwick is to Sydney what Central Park is to New York Metropolis.
With the chance to view varied wildlife akin to foxes, rabbits and a wide range of birds, Centennial Park is a technique to escape town with out actually leaving it.
You can even go horse using if you happen to’re . However that may set you again somewhat bit. As a substitute, cycle or stroll by means of Centennial Park, cease for a picnic or cup of espresso and benefit from the day!
Sydney Journey Information
There are numerous issues to see in Sydney because it’s an enormous metropolis with a brimming cultural scene and enjoyable outside actions.
From exploring a up to date artwork gallery, to roaming the Royal Botanic Gardens, to visiting the Rocks Discovery Museum, to strolling by means of Darling Harbour and Centennial Park, there are such a lot of free issues to do right here.
Whereas being an incredible journey vacation spot that has lots to supply to its guests, Sydney is an costly metropolis, too.
That will help you keep on price range whereas scoping out all Sydney points of interest, we now have created this record adjoining to free issues to do in Sydney record.
Learn under for recommendations on probably the most cheap methods to go round Sydney.
Low-cost Transport In Sydney
Once you first get to Sydney, get your self an Opal Card. That is what you’ll use for the buses, trains and public ferries. It’s a card that you may high up with cash and use to pay on your charges.
You may get a card from any 7/11 or retailer that has the Opal image displayed, in addition to in any respect main prepare stations within the metropolis (City Corridor, Central, and many others).
You can even high it up from these locations. Through the use of Opal Playing cards on public transport, you’ll take pleasure in every day journey caps and the $2.50 per particular person Sunday cap.
Visiting On A Sunday?
Household Funday lets you discover Sydney with limitless journey on buses, trains and lightweight rail for under $2.50 per particular person, whereas youngsters below 4 journey free.
How cool is that! Buy tickets from information businesses, comfort shops, prepare and ferry ticket workplaces.
In case you are uncertain, ask the data workplaces or the reception at your resort/hostel.
Have you ever been to Australia’s hottest metropolis? What are your ideas for one of the best free issues to do in Sydney?
