The ultimate Sydney travel guide

From world-famous sights to amazing bars and restaurants, there's always something to see in Australia's biggest city.

Lock in that city break with cashback on your stay and go from day to night with our favourite places to visit and things to do in Sydney.

Early mornings in Sydney

If you’re an early riser, Sydney's east-coast position offers some of the best sunrise spots around. Take a walk along Balmoral Beach to catch sweeping views of this harbour peninsula or join the locals for a swim in the calm water. If you feel like a morning treat, stop in at Pasture of Balmoral for a caffeine boost to start the day.

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Instagram, Pasture of Balmoral

Feeling energised after your daily exercise? Explore the leafy surrounds of Mosman or travel to nearby Manly for another slice of beach life. Morning is a great time to watch the local surfers catching a wave – just be sure to stay out their way!

The best breakfasts in Sydney

Sydneysiders take their breakfasts very seriously; and whether you're looking to grab a bite in the city or take your time in a beachside cafe, you won't be short on options here. For a morning meal that gets you prepared for a day of exploring, try our coastline picks of Shuk in Bondi or Blackwood Pantry, located further south in Cronulla.

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Instagram, Shuk Bondi

If you prefer to be tucked away in Sydney’s suburbs, check out Cavalier 2.0 in St Leonards. With a convenient location close to public transport and a great fusion menu, even the most seasoned foodies will stay satisfied until lunch.

Things to do in Sydney

There's so much to see in Sydney, and one of the best ways to do it all is to jump aboard a hop-on, hop-off Big Bus tour. With lots of other travellers to keep you company, you'll tick off the main sites, while getting rewarded with cashback on your tickets when you book through Expedia Australia.

Be sure to book your experiences and attractions ahead of time to save cash and avoid disappointment. Local guides are a wealth of information on the city's hidden gems, so remember to ask them for ideas on where to go beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

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Where to stay in Sydney

After a short trip around the city, there’s no better time to find your hotel and take a break before venturing out again. If you want to be situated in the heart of the city, check out the Sydney accommodation deals at the Sheraton Grand Sydney in Hyde Park, or take in the sweeping views from the landmark Meriton Suites World Tower. Alternatively, explore the city's historic past from the Four Seasons Hotel in The Rocks. With cashback available on your hotel stay, it's easy to find luxe accommodation at an affordable price with deals from Booking.com, Hotels.com, Luxury Escapes and Stayz.

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Website, Meriton Suites World Tower

Looking for a cheap accommodation option that's outside the CBD but still in the heart of the action? Try the Vibe Hotel in North Sydney, or head to the Travelodge Hotel Manly Warringah for a beachside stay that's close to bars and restaurants.

Long lunching in Sydney

Long lunching is a favourite pastime in Sydney, with a huge range of options to keep any palate satisfied. For beachside dining, try Sean’s in Bondi, Pilu at Freshwater or Mimi’s at Coogee. Each has a distinctive coastal feel, while also offering a delicious fine-dining experience.

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Instagram, Pilu Restaurant

For a more wallet-friendly option, Groupon is a great resource for dining offers in Sydney. Our top picks are Dumpling Hut in Sydney’s CBD or the Little Snail in Pyrmont, where you can enjoy a deluxe meal while maximizing your savings.

Feeling extra hungry after a morning of adventures? Keep the energy levels high at 500 Degrees Kogarah with a selection of chargrill steaks, skewers and loaded burgers. Tucked away out of the main city, you can also find quiet beaches nearby to walk off your meal.

Sunsets in Sydney

After lunch, take some time to relax at La Perouse in Kamay Botany Bay National Park. With beaches, walking tracks and lookout spots that are perfect for golden hour, it’s a great place to be at any time of day.

If you like some people watching with your sea view, pitch up at North Bondi's Grassy Knoll and watch the sky change colour over the ocean. Or, for unforgettable sundowner views over the city, find your way to Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights, Berrys Bay lookout in Waverton or Milson's Point for the ultimate harbour sunset.

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Dinner in Sydney

Once the sun goes down, Sydney comes to life with dinner options, with a huge range of bars and restaurants. After a busy day, a lowkey venue like Small Bar might appeal, with two locations to choose from and a menu that will keep most tastebuds happy.

Feeling fancy? Settle in for an elegant five-course tasting menu at Annata in Crows Nest, or plan ahead with indulgent dinner options and cashback from Viator. For an unforgettable experience, choose the Sydney Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise or visit Infinity at Sydney Tower for the best views in town.

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Instagram, Infinity Sydney Tower

If you're keen to meet like-minded travellers over a relaxed dinner, try The Rocks Historical Pub Tour or the Taste of Sydney experience. Enjoy your meal as an entree to a fun night out, as there's lots left to discover in Sydney after dark…

Sydney Nightlife

Get amongst the Sydney nightlife and enjoy everything that the Harbour City has to offer. Score tickets to a show, such as the world-renowned 'Hamilton' at the Sydney Lyric Theatre in Pyrmont. You can even save on tickets when you reserve your seat online through Ticketmaster and get cashback on your booking.

After a more casual vibe? Head into the Inner West suburb of Newtown and rub shoulders with the locals while catching a gig. Or, for an intimate live music performance, check out Boogie Mountain in the Kings Cross district. If you skipped dinner, this is the perfect place for a late-night feed. And if the mood takes you, wash your meal down with one of their famous magnums of rose and get ready to hit the dancefloor – the night is still young here in Sydney!

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Instagram, Boogie Mountain

Are you ready to plan your next getaway? From a weekend away to a longer holiday, Sydney is a city full of sights and sounds and surprises. Whatever you're looking for, book your next trip through Cashrewards today and get cashback on your flights, accommodation, experiences and more!

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