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Best Things to do in Sydney (2026)

Some of the most rewarding things to do in Sydney cost little or nothing. The Manly Ferry from Circular Quay is a regular public service, yet it offers one of the finest views of the harbour, passing the Opera House and crossing towards the Heads before arriving at Manly's ocean beach. For a bird's-eye view of the whole city, the Sydney Tower Eye observation deck rises 250 m above the shopping streets of the city centre.

Shopping and browsing are part of the experience too. The Queen Victoria Building, completed in 1898, is worth visiting for its dome, stained glass and clocks even if you do not plan to buy anything, while Paddy's Markets in Haymarket offers a more down-to-earth market experience from Wednesday to Sunday. Across the harbour, Luna Park has entertained visitors beside the Harbour Bridge since 1935 and suits families and anyone after a little nostalgia. Many of these experiences can be combined in a single day: start at the QVB and Sydney Tower, walk down to Circular Quay for the ferry to Manly, and return in time for sunset over the harbour.

5 places · Updated October 24, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Sydney

  1. Manly Ferry Harbour ferry ride, Circular QuayThe F1 public ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, a seven-nautical-mile harbour crossing past the Opera House and the harbour's eastern bays to the Heads.
  2. Sydney Tower Eye Observation deck, Sydney CBDThe observation deck of Sydney Tower, 250 m above the city centre, giving 360-degree views over the harbour, the beaches and towards the Blue Mountains.
  3. Queen Victoria Building Heritage shopping arcade, Sydney CBDA Romanesque-style arcade completed in 1898 on George Street, with a central dome, stained glass, decorative clocks and four levels of shops and cafés.

Thing to do

1. Manly Ferry

Harbour ferry rideCircular Quay

The F1 public ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, a seven-nautical-mile harbour crossing past the Opera House and the harbour's eastern bays to the Heads.

View details — Manly Ferry