Things We Love: Sydney Hotspots

City Food & Wine

With unspoiled beaches, a buzzing city hub, handful of iconic landmarks, and an exciting line up of year-round entertainment, it’s hard not to fall in love with the ultimate do-all destination: Sydney. Keep reading to discover our favourite hotspots in Sydney, the illustrious ‘Harbour City’, covering food, fashion, nightlife, festivals and family-friendly fun.

Fashion Fix

What do you get when you blend a laidback market vibe with a beachfront location and a cool collection of designer clothing, handmade jewellery and homewares? The famous Bondi Markets! They are one of the top things to do in Sydney. Held every Sunday from 10am to 4pm at the Bondi Beach Public School (located on Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach), the markets are a melting pot of creativity, with countless stalls peddling exotic imports, crafts, unique and retro furniture, and vintage clothes alongside local up-and-coming fashion labels. And with successful Aussie designer brands Sass & Bide and Ksubi, plus coveted boho jewellery label Samantha Wills, all making their start at the popular Bondi Markets, you never know what treasures you may find.
www.bondimarkets.com.au

Garden Dining

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner that you’re after, follow the locals to the ever-popular The Grounds of Alexandria – a coffee roaster, artisan bakery, organic garden and restaurant that is a major player in Sydney’s food revolution. With a paddock to plate ethos, this hotspot in Sydney spans an acre and offers three unique places to meet, eat and drink, comprising The Café, The Potting Shed and The Garden. It is a beautiful, restored heritage building that presents an oasis of plants, gardens, vegetable and herb patches and even a small animal farm complete with resident pig, Kevin Bacon, The Grounds of Alexandria (2 Huntley Street, Alexandria) is a sure-fire winner with foodies of all ages.
www.thegrounds.com.au

City Lights

Sydney is known for its extensive event schedule but there’s one annual celebration in particular that brings the city together and presents the perfect excuse to plan your trip sooner rather than later. The stunning, citywide light show spectacle that is Vivid Sydney illuminates the city each night, with outdoor light installations and projections that transform major buildings and landmarks – such as the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge – for all to see.

Local and international music acts provide the soundtrack to the festival, while those looking to do more than just spectate can indulge in the long list of workshops, forum discussions, exhibits and presentations offered during the three-week event that takes place in May and June. The dates might slightly vary from year to year, so be sure to check them in advance before planning the top things to do in Sydney.
www.vividsydney.com

Happy Hour

If it’s nightlife that you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Sydney is home to a myriad of sophisticated cocktail and wine bars, relaxed pubs, and bursting-at-the-seams clubs spread across the city and its surrounds, making it easy (and in some ways, difficult!) to plan your night on the town with so many choices on offer. Emerging as the after-dark ‘see and be seen’ hot spot is Double Bay in Sydney’s east, home to new kid on the block, Casablanca Bar, and the ultra-swish Pelicano. While those staying closer to the city can enjoy a drink at laid-back haunts like the beachside Bucket List in Bondi and the upscale Jimmy's Rooftop in the CBD.

Besides, Sydney has a very lively music scene, and concerts are also a huge part of the city’s culture. From major venues such as the Sydney Opera House and Accor Stadium to smaller, more intimate gigs like Metro Theatre or Enmore Theatre. If you are a fan of music, be sure to check them out!

If you stay at Oaks Sydney Hyde Park Suites, which right in the heart of Sydney CBD, you’ll be able to walk back to your accommodation after an amazing night out!

www.pelicano.com.au | https://merivale.com/venues/jimmys-rooftop/

Zoo with a View

If you’re travelling to Sydney with the family in tow, it’s fair to say the family-cation wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the iconic Targona Zoo. With thousands of exotic animals to see and learn about, and multiple interactive experiences for the little ones, Taronga Zoo presents a world of wonder for all ages.

And if one day isn’t enough, why not stay a little longer with the Roar & Snore package, where visitors can pitch a safari style tent in the central part of the zoo and wake up with the animals to stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Try to arrive early to avoid big crowds, bring water snacks and comfortable shoes as the park is huge! You’ll be walking a lot!

www.taronga.org.au

Sydney is full of hidden gems! Explore and discover your favourite Sydney hotspots throughout the city!

Sydney Travel FAQs

Are there any other annual festivals or events in Sydney?

Apart from the iconic Vivid Festival, which is a must-see if you are visiting the city in May or June, there are numerous events to experience throughout the year, such as Sydney’s New Year’s Eve firework spectacle.

Other fun celebrations include Sydney’s Film Festival (June), Sydney Fashion Week (May), and the colourful Mardi Gras Pride Parade (March). The city comes alive, offering plenty of activities for the public. Be sure to check if any events are taking place during your trip to make the most of your time!

How to make the most of your Taronga Zoo visit?

Taronga Zoo is one of the greatest experiences and the top things to do in Sydney. To see the animals in action, be sure to check the feeding times. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you’ll be walking through the entire parks. Remember to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated and have keep your energy throughout the day.

For the fullest experience, book one of the guided tours or take part in special experiences such as animal encounters, the Sky Safari (a cable car that offers amazing aerial views of the zoo), and much more. If you can, support conservation donating to one of their programmes or buying eco-friendly products from the gift shop!

Where can I see the best light installations during Vivid Sydney?

Each evening at 6pm, the city comes alive during Vivid Sydney, transforming itself into a canvas of light. Some key locations to consider are the Sydney Opera House, where its sails are adorned with light projections. The waterfront at Circular Quay and The Rocks also features dynamic installations.

For a more peaceful setting, visit the Royal Botanic Garden, where the enchanting lights on the trees create a magical ambience. Darling Harbour is also another hotspot for watching sculptures and interactive art, making it a fun family activity.

Experiencing the lights during Vivid Sydney is one of the top things to do in Sydney if you are visiting in May or June. Be sure to check the official dates!

What kind of nightlife does Sydney offer?

Sydney offers a wide variety of nightlife options. From cocktail bars and pubs where you can enjoy a drink with friends or a partner to incredible nightclubs spread across the city, there’s something for everyone. Oxford Street is one of the main hotspots for a night out, known for its vibrant atmosphere. The Circular Quay and The Rocks offer a more laid-back experience with waterfront bars.

Whether you are after a wild night out or a more relaxed and cosmopolitan evening, Sydney has exactly what you are looking for!

What is the best way to get around Sydney's hotspots?

The best way to get around the city is by using its public transport system. Most of Sydney hotspots and major landmarks and are very well-connected. Besides, if you stay right in the city centre, such as in Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites or Oaks Sydney Castlereagh Suites, you will be within walking distance of several major attractions such as Darling Harbour, Capital Theatre and more.

How to get to Bondi Beach from the city centre?

Parking near Bondi Beach can be extremely difficult, so using public transport might be the smartest option. Trains run from Sydney’s Central Station to Bondi Junction Station, where you can take one of the many buses that go to Bondi Beach, a summer paradise. There are also direct buses from the Circular Quay in the CBD that will take you directly to the beach.

Enjoy one of the top things in Sydney, with its coffee shops, fashionable markets, and plenty of sunshine!

What's the best area to stay in Sydney for first-time visitors?

If you are planning your first trip, exploring Sydney’s hotspots should be at the top of your list. Choosing the right area to stay in is crucial, as it will save you unnecessary travel time. The CBD, Sydney’s Central Business District, is ideal for sightseeing, with many major landmarks nearby. Our Oaks Sydney Hyde Park is the perfect spot.

Another great option is Darling Harbour, a lively waterfront area with plenty of attractions and dining options. Our Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites is located just in the heart of it, so you’ll be within walking distance from most landmarks.

For the beach lovers, staying near the main beaches like Bondi or Manly will be a fantastic choice.

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