What can I do in Sydney in 48 hours?
Planning a short city break and wondering, “**What can I do in Sydney in 48 hours?” Maybe you’re traveling further afield and need to keep busy for a short layover. Whatever the reason for your stay in Sydney, you won’t be short of things to keep you busy during your stay in this bustling Australian city. Sydney is one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet, with a world-class culinary scene, inspiring architecture and enchanting attractions. Our guide is on hand to give you some inspiration on how to make sure every moment of your stay in Sydney is memorable.
Must-see attractions in Sydney
If you’re only in town for a night or two, make sure a visit to Sydney Harbor is at the top of your to-do list. The sprawling harbor serves as the beating heart of this beautiful city, with stunning views of the Sydney skyline and azure blue waters teeming with yachts and cruise ships. The harbor is also home to the world famous Sydney Opera House. Even if your stay doesn’t coincide with a live performance, you’ll definitely want to take in the view of this amazing landmark. Like most Australian cities, Sydney sits in close proximity to the ocean and is home to some stunning stretches of coastline. You’ll find plenty of beaches within a short drive of the city center, with Bondi Beach and Manly Beach two you should definitely aim for at some point. If you want to keep active during your stay, the nearby bays and beaches provide exceptional potential for water sports and there are some specially carved paths along the coast between the bays to explore. Keen surfers will find perfect waves throughout the day, while those looking to take to the water to kayak or sail are also well provided for.
Where to take a spectacular selfie in Sydney
No trip to Sydney is complete without taking a few selfies. Luckily, the capital of New South Wales offers you plenty of potential selfie backgrounds that will drive your followers crazy. The city center is where you’ll find some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, including the instantly recognizable Sydney Opera House. This part of the city is also home to another must-see, the Sydney Harbor Bridge. With countless perspectives to capture the perfect shot, you’ll have no trouble getting a brilliant background. One of the best places to get a snapshot is from the bars and restaurants on the lower ground level of the walkway on the bridge side of the Opera House. Grab a table, a drink, and soak in the view. The Royal Botanic Garden is also very close by, providing you with a stunning combination of lush greenery and imposing architecture. Do you enjoy Sydney with your family? Take an amazing selfie with one of the animals at Taronga Zoo, just across the harbor from the Sydney Opera House, this city zoo is home to giraffes with their own unique view of the city’s icons!
Enjoy the nightlife in Sydney
If you want to make the most of your time in Sydney, you’ll be glad to know that you can party well into the night in this cosmopolitan hub. Sydney has a thriving nightlife, with hundreds of traditional pubs and stylish bars to suit all tastes. The Kings Cross area of the city is a good place to start if you want to take advantage of happy hour, while Oxford Street is the hub of Sydney’s gay area. Both districts are packed with a wide variety of clubs, cafes and bars. If you are looking for something more exclusive, head to King Street Wharf. Here you’ll find stylish venues with waterside terraces, giving you the perfect spot to sip a cocktail while watching the sun set over the harbour.
World-class food and drink in Sydney
Sydney is synonymous with good food. No matter how short your stay in the New South Wales capital is, you can enjoy some truly excellent cuisine. Seafood is the true star of the local dining scene and you don’t have to spend a lot to savor world-class cuisine. Head to the Sydney Fish Market for an order of fresh prawns or sushi, or opt for refined elegance at one of the city’s many award-winning restaurants. Due to its multicultural makeup, Sydney brings together a plethora of culinary influences from around the world. Asian cuisine is now a staple of Sydney menus, with Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese food easy to find in every part of the city. Not sure what to drink along with your favorite meal? The nearby Hunter Valley wine region is one of the best in the country, producing an eclectic array of Shiraz, Chardonnay and Verdelho varietals.
Where to buy souvenirs
If you want to go home with memories of your time in Sydney, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to shopping destinations. Sydney’s retail offering is diverse, offering you designer outlets and budget shopping opportunities alike. Head to Pitt Street in the city center to explore the popular department stores and mom-and-pop shops. You’ll also find a diverse selection of smaller shopping arcades to suit the broadest of tastes. If you like fashion, the Paddington area of the city is definitely worth a visit. Here you’ll discover top-tier designer shops and exclusive boutiques, offering you the chance to pick up a one-of-a-kind piece. If you’re looking for more affordable souvenirs to take home with friends and family, head to The Rocks or Darling Harbor districts. Both areas of the city are packed with souvenir shops that cater to the tourism sector. If your stay in Sydney falls on a weekend, you can also immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the local markets. Balmain and Paddington host markets on Saturdays, while Bondi Beach hosts its own market on Saturdays and Sundays.