Sydney Australia 7 Day Itinerary

A suggested itinerary to explore Santa Fe, NM

by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 1/23/2025

 Day 1: City Lights and Harbor Delights

• Morning: Start your day in The Rocks, the historic heart of Sydney. Explore cobbled lanes, browse artisan shops, and visit the Rocks Discovery Museum to learn about the city's convict past.
• Afternoon: Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for breathtaking panoramic views and a thrilling experience. Then, hop on a ferry to Circular Quay and enjoy an authentic Australian lunch at the Fish Market.
• Evening: Sail around the harbor on a Sunset Harbor or Dinner Cruise marveling at the Opera House and city skyline bathed in golden light. End your night with a delicious meal and captivating live music at Darling Harbour.

 Day 2: Bondi Beach Bliss

• Morning: Immerse yourself in the iconic Bondi Beach scene. Swim in the turquoise waters, learn to surf, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.
• Afternoon: Take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, enjoying stunning clifftop views and hidden coves. Stop for lunch at a beachfront cafe and admire the surfers catching waves.
• Evening: Experience the vibrant Bondi nightlife with a pub crawl through the neighborhood's trendy bars and restaurants. If you're feeling adventurous, try catching a show at the open-air Bondi Pavilion.

 Day 3: Cultural Immersions and Botanical Bounty

• Morning: Head to the Royal Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape. Wander through themed gardens, admire native flora, and enjoy the sweeping views of the harbor.
• Afternoon: Explore the Art Gallery of New South Wales, housing an impressive collection of Australian and international art. Afterwards, delve into the world of science at the Sydney Observatory or discover maritime history at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
• Evening: Immerse yourself in the diverse flavors of Chinatown with a delicious street food crawl. Catch a Cantonese opera performance or browse the colorful lantern stores for unique souvenirs.

 Day 4: Blue Mountains Escapade

• Morning: Escape the city for a day trip to the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike through breathtaking landscapes, witness cascading waterfalls, and ride the scenic Skyrail for panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Visit Scenic World and embark on a thrilling journey aboard the steep Scenic Railway and the Scenic Cableway, offering dramatic glimpses of the valley below.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a charming Blue Mountains village before returning to Sydney in the evening.

 Day 5: Manly Magic and Hidden Gems

• Morning: Take a ferry to Manly Beach, a laid-back paradise with beautiful surf, golden sand, and a bohemian atmosphere. Enjoy a beach walk, try stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
• Afternoon: Explore Manly Corso, a vibrant street lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the Art Deco-style Manly Art Gallery & Museum or shop for unique souvenirs at the Manly Wharf markets.
• Evening: Head to one of Manly's lively bars or rooftop terraces for sundowners and stunning views of the ocean. Alternatively, visit the nearby Queen Victoria (QVB) building for a glamorous evening of shopping and dining.

 Day 6: Inner City Adventures and Nightlife

• Morning: Delve into the multicultural melting pot of Newtown, exploring quirky stores, independent cafes, and vibrant street art. Visit the iconic Newtown Hotel for a coffee and people-watch, or browse the stalls at the Eveleigh Markets.
• Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the creative energy of Surry Hills, known for its trendy galleries, street art, and independent design stores. Grab lunch at a trendy cafe and explore the area's hidden laneways.
• Evening: Experience Sydney's vibrant nightlife scene with a pub crawl through Glebe or King's Cross. Catch a live music performance, dance the night away at a popular nightclub, or enjoy a sophisticated cocktail bar experience.

 Day 7: Farewell and a Taste of Aussie Nature

• Morning: Visit Taronga Zoo, nestled on the shores of Sydney Harbour. Admire diverse animals from around the world, enjoy educational shows, and take in the stunning harbor views.
• Afternoon: Take a final ferry ride across the harbor, enjoying one last glimpse of the iconic Opera House and cityscape.
• Evening: Head to one of Sydney's waterfront bars or restaurants for a farewell dinner with breathtaking views of the sunset.