First Timer's Guide to Sydney Australia

Advisor - Crystal Hoover
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Crystal Hoover

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  • Sydney

  • Australia

  • Adventure Travel

  • Solo Travel

  • Beach Town

  • Local Culture

  • Sightseeing

Advisor - First Timer's Guide to Sydney Australia
Curator’s statement

Sydney captured my heart during my solo trip for NYE 2019/2020, sparking a profound love for this mesmerizing city. Its stunning pristine beaches, blended with the charms of urban life, left me wanting more. This compelled me to return to Sydney in 2022 when the Australian borders reopened. Since then, I've moved to Sydney on a year-long visa to delve deeper into its wonders and immerse myself in the land down under.

The Fora Difference

Book with Crystal to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Customized travel planning for your style

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay Sydney, Australia

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Crown Towers Perth

Contemporary hotel with panoramic views over the Swan River and city skyline.

Fora Perks
  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

One of the best locations in Sydney with views of both the bridge and the Opera under the renowned Four Seasons name.

Fora Perks
  • When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

The Langham, Sydney

Discover refined luxury and unparalleled elegance at The Langham in Sydney. Situated in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel offers exceptional accommodations, impeccable service, and breathtaking views of Sydney's vibrant skyline. Indulge in world-class dining, unwind at the luxurious spa, and immerse yourself in the cultural delights of this captivating metropolis. Experience a truly sophisticated and unforgettable stay at The Langham, Sydney.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible

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Advisor - Crystal Hoover

Unlock perks by contacting Crystal to book your trip.

Things to do Sydney, Australia

First Timer's Guide to Sydney Australia - Things to do
  • Explore Sydney Harbor: Take a cruise or a ferry ride to enjoy panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge, and the stunning waters of the harbor.

  • Visit the Sydney Opera House: Known to many, the opera house is an architectural masterpiece. Catch a performance or take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.

  • Relax at Bondi Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun, surfing, or strolling along the iconic Bondi Beach. Don't miss the chance to explore the trendy beachside cafés, shops, or the famous Iceberg swimming club.

  • Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge: For my adrenaline junkies. Experience the thrill of climbing one of the world's most famous bridges and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and harbor.

  • Explore "The Rocks": Wander through Sydney's oldest neighborhood, filled with cobbled streets, historic buildings, galleries, boutiques, and weekend markets.

  • Visit Taronga Zoo: Get up close and personal with Australia's unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses. The zoo also has spectacular views of Sydney Harbor.

  • Take a coastal walk: Embark on the famous scenic coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee. You'll encounter stunning cliffs, secluded beaches, and picturesque coastal views along the way.

  • Discover the Royal Botanic Garden: Relax in this beautiful sprawling garden, and enjoy stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and harbor while doing so.

  • Explore Darling Harbour: Enjoy a range of entertainment options, including museums, restaurants, shopping centers, bars, and more!

Day trips

  • Blue Mountains: Explore stunning landscapes, ancient rock formations, or enjoy some relaxing time in the ever popular Japanese Bath House.

  • Hunter Valley: Indulge in wine tasting, gourmet food, and immerse yourself in the serene vineyard scenery.

  • Royal National Park and Coastal Escapes: Discover pristine beaches, scenic trails, and visit coastal towns like Wollongong and Kiama for seaside charm.

Places to eat & drink Sydney, Australia

First Timer's Guide to Sydney Australia - Places to eat & drink
  • Quay: Located at Sydney's iconic Circular Quay, Quay is renowned for its innovative fine dining experience, offering stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and delectable modern Australian cuisine.

  • Bennelong: Situated within the Sydney Opera House, Bennelong showcases contemporary Australian cuisine in a refined setting. The restaurant's menu highlights seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The Beresford restaurant in Sydney offers a delightful pub style dining experience with a stylish and contemporary ambiance. The menu features modern Australian cuisine, that attracts locals and visitors alike. Cirq: A gorgeous rooftop terrace in the heart of Barangaroo. This rooftop focuses on elegant tapas style dishes, while giving you a spectacular view of Sydney's waterfront Circular Quay.

  • Tetsuya's: Tetsuya's is a culinary institution in Sydney, known for its Japanese-French fusion cuisine. The restaurant offers an exquisite degustation menu featuring dishes crafted with precision and finesse.

  • Quay Street Diner: Led by renowned chef Peter Gilmore, Quay Street Diner is a more casual and accessible spin-off of Quay. It offers a diverse menu with a focus on wood-fired cooking and vibrant flavors.

  • Sixpenny: Nestled in the suburb of Stanmore, Sixpenny offers a memorable dining experience with its seasonal tasting menus. The restaurant prides itself on showcasing Australian produce and flavors.

  • Firedoor: With a philosophy centered around cooking with fire, Firedoor in Surry Hills offers a unique and flavorsome dining experience. The menu features a range of dishes prepared using various types of wood fire.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, The Must-See's of NYC: Where to Eat, Stay & Explore.

Advisor - Crystal Hoover

Travel Advisor

Crystal Hoover

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Sydney.