Are you planning a trip to Sydney, Australia, and looking for the best things to see and do? Look no further. Whether you are planning a weekend Sydney adventure or stopping off in this great city on a larger Australia road trip itinerary, we have you covered with the must-see attractions around Sydney, Australia. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge to the stunning beaches of Bondi and world-class museums, as well as all the fun and free things to do in Sydney for budget travellers – there is plenty to see and do no matter your adventure style and budget. Let’s dive in!
Image: Mark Clinton
The weather in Sydney
Sydney is known for its sunny, temperate climate, making it a popular destination year-round:
Spring (September to November) – Temperatures range from 11°C to 23°C, and the city is filled with blooming flowers and fresh greenery.
Summer (December to February) – This is a great time to hit the beach, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.
Autumn (March to May) – Temperatures range from 14°C to 22°C, and this makes this season a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens as the leaves start to change colour.
Winter (June to August) – This season brings cooler temperatures, with an average range of 8°C to 17°C, but the city still has plenty to offer with winter festivals, indoor activities, and stunning coastal walks.
Where to stay in Sydney
Whether you are looking to stay in the heart of Sydney or on the outskirts, we have you covered with these top Sydney campervan accommodation options: great accommodation options.
NRMA Sydney Lakeside holiday park
Only 23 km north of Sydney’s CBD, NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park is found on the shores of Narrabeen Lake and is in a prime location to park up and relax or to use as a base to explore the Sydney Region. As well as all thefacilitiesyou would expect from a caravan park NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park also offers:
Air Hockey Table
Arcade Games
Convenience Store/Kiosk
Ensuite Sites
In Park Boat Ramp
Lending Library
Table Tennis
Walking Tracks
Water Playground
Cost: From $45 a night for a powered Campervan site.
Sydney Tourist Park
Heading 24 km south of the CBD, Sydney Tourist Park is located in the beautiful Sutherland Shire in the heart of Miranda. It is surrounded by many attractions and things to do and is the perfect place to explore some of the best things to do in Sydney. Sydney Tourist Park has some great onsite facilities, including:
Powered grass and slab sites
Amenities with individual bathrooms
Undercover BBQ area with cooking facilities, fridge/freezer and large seating area
Free Wifi
Pet-friendly
Cost: From $50 a night for a powered Motorhome site.
Image: Destination NSW
Katoomba tourist park
If you're headed into the mountains, Katoomba Tourist Park is the best place to base yourself. It is within easy walking distance to Katoomba township as well as famous viewpoints like the Three Sisters. Staying at Katoomba Tourist Park will give you access to their facilities, including:
A newly renovated amenities block
Laundry
A dump point
Free Wifi
Powered private ensuite sites
Cost: Prices range from $44 a night for a powered caravan site
These are a great option for those looking for a caravan park to base themselves in and around Sydney. For more ideas on cost-effective places to stay in the surrounding regions, check out our guide to the best free camping spots near Sydney.
The best Sydney attractions
With so much to see and do, Sydney is a traveller's utopia. Whether your perfect itinerary includes exploring the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, getting adventurous with a ride on an underwater scooter in the harbour, visiting the National Maritime Museum or seeing a movie under the stars at Skyline Drive-In Cinema – Sydney has a smorgasbord of attractions to explore.
Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is one of the city's most popular and picturesque attractions. This 30-hectare oasis boasts stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, as well as over 8,600 plant species from around the world. The garden offers a range of experiences, including guided tours, workshops, and an Aboriginal cultural tour. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options at the on-site cafes, including the award-winning Botanic House Restaurant.
Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is one of the world's most iconic and recognizable buildings, located in the heart of Sydney's harbour. The Opera House is renowned for its striking architecture, with a series of sail-like shells that create a breathtaking view against the backdrop of the expansive harbour. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, which includes behind-the-scenes access to the Opera House's five performance venues. There are also several dining options available, including Bennelong, a fine-dining restaurant, and Opera Bar, which serves casual food and drinks with stunning harbour views.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a striking landmark in the city, offering breathtaking views of the harbour and the city skyline. Visitors can experience the bridge in a variety of ways, from simply driving across it in their camper to climbing to the top for a once-in-a-lifetime view. If you are looking for the latter, The Bridge Climb is an iconic experience, offering visitors the chance to scale the bridge's arches for panoramic views of the city and the harbour. Climbs cost around $345 AUD per person. However, if you don’t want to climb, the bridge can also be viewed from multiple points around the city and makes for a gorgeous backdrop for a motorhome lunch or road trip selfie.
Image: Destination NSW
Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is a popular attraction in Sydney that gives you the chance to get up close and personal with incredibly lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities, world leaders, sports stars, and other notable figures. The attraction is located in Darling Harbour and is open daily from 9:30 am - 5 pm. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the door, and prices start at $48 per person. The wax figures are incredibly realistic and detailed, making for great photo opportunities.
Sea Life Sydney
Sydney Aquarium, now known as Sea Life Sydney, showcases the beauty and diversity of marine life in Australia and around the world. The aquarium features over 4,000 animals throughout multiple themed zones, including the Day and Night at the Reef exhibit, the Penguin Expedition, and the Dugong Island. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the door, and prices start at $51 per person. The aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, shark dives, and even dining experiences where visitors can enjoy a meal surrounded by these majestic creatures.
Australian National Maritime Museum
The Australian National Maritime Museum is located in Sydney's Darling Harbour and showcases the country's maritime heritage. The museum offers a range of exhibits and experiences, including the chance to board historic vessels and explore interactive displays. Entry is free for all permanent galleries, and a “see it all ticket”, giving you access to all special exhibitions, costs $25 per adult. Visitors can explore galleries that showcase Australia's maritime history, including displays on naval warfare, exploration, and the country's diverse watercraft. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year. Additionally, visitors can take a guided tour of the museum or embark on a harbour cruise from the museum's wharf.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Sydney's bustling concrete jungle of the CBD. It spans 16 hectares and is home to shady trees, historical monuments and beautiful fountains. The park has a rich history, having been established in the early 1800s and serving as a public space for over 200 years. Travellers can enjoy a picnic, take a stroll through the lush gardens, or attend one of the many events hosted in the park throughout the year, such as open-air cinema screenings or music festivals. Additionally, the park has plenty of benches, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break while exploring some of the best things to do in Sydney.
Luna Park
Luna Park is an iconic amusement park with breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Since it opened in 1935, it has become famous for its giant face entrance and retro carnival atmosphere. The park has many rides, including the Wild Mouse roller coaster, Ferris Wheel, and the famous Rotor. There is also a range of fun and exciting games to play, food stalls, and carnival-style treats to enjoy. Entry to the park is free, but you need to purchase a ticket starting at $44AUD per day to ride the attractions.
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches and easily one of the top things to do in Sydney, Australia. With its golden sand, turquoise water, and excellent surf conditions, it's a must-visit spot while on an Australian road trip. The beach offers a wide range of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, volleyball, and unparalleled beachside dining. The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is also a popular thing to do in Sydney. This scenic walk begins in Bondi and winds through some of Sydney's most beautiful coastal landscapes. From May to November, you may even catch whales migrating south with their newly born calves breaching the clear waters, the best views can be found from the cliff-top walk. Want to learn to surf? Bondi Beach even offers surfing lessons from professional instructors to help you catch your first wave!
Image: Destination NSW
Australian Museum
The Australian Museum is the country's oldest and largest museum, offering a fascinating insight into Australia's natural and cultural history. Here you can explore the extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and animals, as well as exhibits that showcase the culture and history of Australia's Indigenous people. The museum also has regular special exhibitions, including interactive displays, workshops, and events – so you can explore this beautiful museum at your own pace.
Skyline Drive in cinema
Skyline Drive-In Cinema in Blacktown offers a unique cinema experience for moviegoers. The cinema is located thirty minutes west of the CBD and boasts a range of movies, from classics to blockbusters, shown on a large outdoor screen. With the sound coming through your campervan FM radio, it offers a comfortable and private viewing experience. There are also plenty of food and drink options available, such as hot dogs, popcorn, and ice cream, making it a perfect spot for a date or family night out. The cost varies depending on the movie, time, and people per car but generally starts at $35 per person.
Underwater scooter tour
The Underwater Scooter Tour is a unique and thrilling way to explore the underwater world of Sydney. The tour takes you on an underwater adventure on a self-propelled scooter, giving you the opportunity to see marine life up close and personal. You don't need any diving experience to enjoy this activity, making it accessible to everyone. The tour is led by experienced guides who ensure your safety and provide interesting insights about the marine environment. This activity is suitable for anyone aged 12 and above, and costs start at around $280 per person. All necessary equipment, including wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, is provided.
Tick these Sydney attractions off your bucket list with Mighty
Sydney is a city overflowing with incredible things to do and attractions that cater to a diverse range of interests. From its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, to its stunning beaches and cultural institutions, like the Australian Museum and the Royal Botanic Garden, you could easily stay a week or two and never run out of things to see and do in Sydney. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and stunning scenery, Sydney truly is a city that should be on everyone's bucket list.
Ready to tick these must-see Sydney attractions off your bucket list? Hire a campervan with Mighty today and see all that Sydney has to offer. Simply book online or in a local branch today, and pick up your camper from the Sydney Mighty branch to begin your adventure.
