Photo Credit: Destination NSW
Whether you’ve travelled to Sydney before, or you’re a regular visitor, there’s always something new to see and do in Sydney. Make Vulcan Hotel in Ultimo your base and explore all the activities and attractions that Sydney has to offer. Here is a list of the top things to do in Sydney.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
On the shores of Sydney Harbour, you’ll find over 5,000 animals from around 350 species at Taronga Zoo. Be brave and get up close to the wildlife with animal encounters or discover more at the free wildlife shows. Up for a night with intimate animal encounters, and a spectacular sunset and sunrise over Sydney Harbour? Experience the “Roar and Snore” overnight stay at Taronga Zoo.
Photo Credit: Daniel Boud and Destination NSW
You’ll find everything you need, or want shopping in Sydney. If you’re after designer wear in a historically significant building (it’s been around since 1898), visit the Queen Victoria Building and The Strand Arcade. For all your big well known brands. Visit Pitt Street Mall in the heart of the Sydney CBD. If you love to wander markets, browse the stalls of The Rocks Markets from Friday - Sunday. If you’re after delicious bites and a bit of shopping, Paddy’s Market in Haymarket has it all!
Escape the city centre and head to Bondi Beach, where the white sand meets the clear waters, and most are a little bit hipster. Take a dip in the ocean or visit the famous Iceberg Pools for an ocean pool experience. Alternatively, stay dry and lose yourself in the stunning scenery on the Bondi to Coogee Walking trail.
For a relaxing day, jump on the 30-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. If you’re up for a swim, fill your day with activities such as surfing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, a casual swim or snorkelling. If you’re staying out of the water, walk the 10km on the Manly to Spit Bridge Walk.
Photo Credit: Capitol Theatre
Spend your early evening wining and dining in the restaurants of Ultimo followed by an evening performance at the Capitol Theatre Sydney, just a 15-minute walk from The Vulcan. The Australian owned and operated, heritage-listed Theatre presents world-class musicals, ballet and opera. Watch shows like Wicked, Frozen, Cinderella, Lion King, and Come From Away.
Sydney has some of the best restaurants and bars in Australia, and you’ll need to explore them all day and all night. It’s difficult to pick where to eat or what to eat, but sydney.com have broken down the list for you. Choose from brunch options, late-night indulgences, fine dining establishments or cheap eats. We recommend that you drop by Darling Square which is full of restaurants and bars, and only a 10-minute walk from The Vulcan. For dessert, make sure you venture to Koi Dessert Bar, perfectly positioned between the Vulcan Hotel and Capitol Theatre.
Visit Darling Harbour for some of the best restaurants and bars in Sydney. Sit on a terrace bar and sip cocktails or head to Cockle Bay Wharf for some delicious food. For some entertainment, examine the lifelike wax figures at Madame Tussauds, making sure you take time to snap some pictures. Jump on board vessels or explore the depths of the sea on the HMAS Onslow at the Australian National Maritime Museum. If the kids need to burn some energy, let them run wild at the Darling Harbour Children’s Playground. Circle to 35m above the ground on the Darling Harbour Ferris Wheel, and take in the 360 degrees view surrounding you.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
For animal lovers and kids, a visit to SEA LIFE Sydney is essential. It’s not your average aquarium, boasting nine interactive zones and the world’s biggest interactive recreation of the Great Barrier Reef. Adventure through the oceanarium tunnels to witness some of the 700 different species, or take a ride on the Penguin Expedition. Discover some of the wildlife that lives below the sea such as sharks, rays, penguins, dugongs and turtles.
With glistening white sails arching up to the sky from every direction, the UNESCO World Heritage Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s number one tourist attractions and well-known icons. Sit back, relax and enjoy classical music, dance, film, opera or comedy. If you can’t fit in a show, explore the Sydney Opera House with a behind-the-scenes tour or foodie tour.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW
For those who love adventure, climb to the peaks of one of the most iconic bridges, the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Strap yourself in and follow your guide who will tell you fascinating facts as you appreciate the spectacular views. Pick from four different climbs to the peak, each with their unique adventure —The Summit, the Insider, the Ultimate or the Burrawa path.
Photo Credit: Destination NSW for Dreamtime Southern X
Explore the oldest surviving culture on earth with Aboriginal tours and experiences in Sydney. Go walkabout with Kadoo Tours on an authentic aboriginal guided tour. Alternatively, head to the Botanical Gardens and delve into the history of the Cadigal people and Australian bush foods.
