Sydney is one of those cities that feels like a good time from the moment you land. The Opera House on the harbour, the ocean pools, the long coastal walks and a seriously good food scene. Here’s how I like to spend a few days there.
Things to Do in Sydney
The Bondi to Coogee Walk
If you do one thing, do this. The Bondi to Coogee walk runs for about 6km along the cliffs, past beaches and ocean pools, with the Pacific on one side the whole way. Every year, part of the route becomes an open-air gallery for Sculpture by the Sea, with artworks dotted along the cliffs.
Halfway along you’ll pass Bronte Beach, which is the perfect place to stop for a swim and a coffee.
Depending on where you start, you’ll begin or end at Bondi Beach. Finish with lunch at the Bondi Icebergs Club, right above the famous ocean pool. It’s casual, good value and the view is unbeatable. It’s on my list of favourite restaurants with a view.
Where to Stay
InterContinental Double Bay
If you’d rather stay outside the city centre, InterContinental Double Bay is a lovely choice. The rooftop pool has a gorgeous view back over the city, and Double Bay itself is full of boutiques, bars and restaurants. I really enjoyed being based there.
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
For somewhere right in the middle of the city, I’d book Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. City hotels can be bland, but Sofitel is all about the little touches. The rooms are well appointed, the toiletries are by Balmain, and I was welcomed with a bottle of wine and chocolates.
Where to Eat
Bistro Moncur
Bistro Moncur is one of my favourite lunch spots in Sydney. It’s a classic French bistro with a warm, buzzy room, beautifully cooked steaks and very good seafood. The service is attentive without ever hovering.
Margaret
Also in Double Bay, Margaret is elegant but relaxed, with a menu built around fresh, high-quality produce and creative flavours. It’s lovely for a special lunch or dinner.
Lena’s Tips
- Do the coastal walk early. Start at Bondi in the morning, before the heat and the crowds, and end with lunch.
- Bring your swimmers. Bronte and Coogee both have ocean pools that are perfect for a dip along the way.
- Stay in Double Bay for a calmer trip. It’s close to the city but feels like a village.
- Book lunch ahead. Bistro Moncur and Icebergs are both popular, especially on a sunny weekend.
The Verdict
Sydney mixes big-city energy with beach days better than almost anywhere. Walk Bondi to Coogee, eat well in Double Bay and give yourself at least one long lunch with an ocean view.
More from Australia: read my Hamilton Island guide, Noosa guide and Margaret River guide.
“Sydney is best on foot, by the water, with a long lunch at the end. Start at Bondi and don’t rush.” – Lena
