Living in Sydney is glamorous and exciting. But surviving in the second most expensive city in the world can be a touch over budget. Thankfully, there are many amazing free things to do in Sydney.
When the purse strings are tight, you can count on the below 15 top Sydney free attractions and activities to entertain you.
These are life-savers when you are over chilling at Darling Harbor or taking walks around this amazing city! Not everyone tells you about all of these things 😉
15. Bondi to Coogee Coastal walk
Disclosure: This post may have affiliate link(s). They do not cost anything extra to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Starting at the world-famous Bondi beach, this coastal walk takes you through 6 km of stunning cliff top views, rock pools and clear blue ocean views as far as the eye can see.
14. Kirribilli Lookout
Hidden away under the harbour bridge is one of the most far-reaching views of the harbour. Get a takeaway pizza and hang out with your mates here for a free and chilled and cheap evening out.
13. Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk
Passing stunning Palm Beach, this 2.2 KM loop takes you to the most northern part of Palm Beach, overlooking all of Pittwater and out to sea. For more information, check here.
12. Art Gallery of NSW
Come on in and look at some of the most incredible artistic works the world can offer. Spanning many different genres from Aboriginal, Asian and Contemporary works that are sure to impress!
11. Luna Park
Free entry into the park! Have fun strolling around the park, but rides are $10 if you’re feeling a little lavish.
10. Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral
A breathtaking architectural feat right in the heart of the city.
9. Spit Bridge to Manly
Along the scenic Manly walkway, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll over the bridge to the Northern Beaches. Take a break along the way to observe the Aboriginal rock carvings at Grotto Point Lighthouse.
8. Visit Cockatoo Island
The UNESCO Heritage site is just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, located in the heart of the Harbour this truly is a beautiful site to see. Take a guided audio tour to learn about the island’s convict heritage. For more information check here.
7. Paddy’s Markets
One of the funniest ways to get cultured amidst city living. Peruse the local markets in your area, or head to Glebe and Paddington as they put on quite a show!
6. Beaches
Sydney is renowned for some spectacular beaches, which of course are free to visit! Some notably be sure to check out Manly, Maroubra and Camp Cove.
5. Explore the Royal National Park
On Sydney’s back doorstep lies the beautiful Royal National Park. The site is filled with stunning trail walks to waterfalls and swimming holes, you may have to make a donation to the park rangers if you are driving.
4. Centennial Park Picnics
The Centennial Park is Sydney’s largest park. There are so many things to do here on a beautiful sunny day. Take a picnic, walk the dogs, feed the ducks or download the apps and take a self-guided walking tour through the park’s plant and wildlife.
3. North Head Sanctuary
Teeming with wildlife, this headland near Manly shows off the stunning views of the city and harbour from its cliffs. Be sure to check out the military remains when you’re there!
Access the gorgeous Shelley beach or just walk along the water. This is a secret getaway of Sydney!
2. Museum of Contemporary Art
If you enjoy modern art, check out this gorgeous museum. Download the museum’s MCA App to bring your cultural experience to life!
1. Botanical Gardens
Enjoy Sydney harbour’s elegant Botanical Gardens, located next to the iconic Opera House. Be sure to look up when the Conservatorium of Music will be performing their free lunchtime concerts to make the most of your trip.
Budget guide to Sydney
Check out my book Sydney on a low budget to get most value out of your money when you backpack in Sydney on a tight budget. It is consistently in the top 100 books of Australia travel on Amazon.
Sydney Travel Inspiration
Check out this book Sydney in 10 Photos: Incredible photos to inspire you to visit Sydney for gorgeous photos of Sydney that would increase your appreciation for this wonderful city.
About the author
Alex is a 23-year-old lover of life, brunch & adventure. After moving to Sydney when finishing a journalism degree, he began his blog Inspire A Better Life to positively influence others to get out there and see all life has to offer. Join Alex as he discovers this life one day at a time, documenting his thoughts and other along the way!
Also read: Top 5 things to do in Sydney
Hey Priya, thank you so much for this post! We’ll be visiting Sydney in 2018 and needless to say your tips will be very, very useful! Can’t wait to be there ♥
Awesome. Have a great trip 🙂
On the bucket list! I’ve always wanted to go to Australia. Pinning your book for later!
Thank you 🙂
Thanks for these awesome suggestions! Now i want to go to Sydney!!
Cool.
I hope one day I would have a chance to visit Sydney! I’ve fallen in love over these pictures, and have so many interesting things to see!
I hope you get the chance soon 🙂
I want go back too.
I travel to Sydney a lot for work and still need to do most of the things on your list! I really need to visit as a traveller next time. Great list.
Thanks 🙂 Have fun!
Lovely… Sydney seems to have a lot to offer tourist. I wish that Sydney will host me someday. Lovely place.
Fingers crossed for you 🙂
Great article and straight to the point for someone who’s looking for some quick tips. I was visiting Sydney a couple of weeks ago and LOVE the Bondi to Coogee walk. Thanks for sharing <3
Thanks for the kind words Sandy 🙂
Always up for free stuff!! haha!! Human genes <3 Great post.
Haha 🙂
Ooh I love Sydney! What a great list! I did the bridge walk when I was there and it was a bit terrifying!
love,
B
Thanks B