If you're looking for things to do in sydney for a few hours or half a day, there is plenty of highlights to cover off. If you've only got a few hours due to flights, work commitments, or limited time, the quickest way from the airport to the city centre is via train. Once you're in the city centre, most of the main attractions that you'll want to see are around the harbour. We've tried to highlight those things to do if you've got limited time, a few hours, or maybe half a day in the city.
Catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly
Website: Click here
- The cheapest harbour cruise (sort of cruise) in Sydney
- Get a water level view of the city
- Explore, grab a bite to eat or a drink in Manly
Paid: Cost is about $8 each way
Duration: 30 minutes each way
Location: Departs from Wharf 3, Circular Quay
Suitable for: Kids, Teenagers, Young Professionals, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Seniors, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
Catching the ferry to Manly is like embarking on a mini-adventure, where you leave the bustling city behind and cruise across the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbor, revealing stunning coastal scenery along the way. As you approach Manly, the anticipation builds, promising a day of relaxation on beautiful beaches, exploration of charming streets, and a taste of seaside dining.
Harbour Bridge Audio+Puzzle Tour
Website: Click here
- Outdoor 'escape-room' style puzzles
- Audiobook quality commentary
- Deep historical insight into the bridge and it's construction
Paid: $39 per tour kit, suitable for up to 3 people
Duration: Approx 2 hours
Location: Dawes Point and surrounds
Suitable for: Teenagers, Geocachers, Young Professionals, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
This Sydney Harbour Bridge Tour has been put together by a former Bridgeclimb climb leader/guide, and offers detailed information and Sydney Harbour Bridge facts, as well as entertaining stories and facts about the bridge and it's construction. A great way to learn about the bridge and have some fun at the same time!
Visit the world famous Bondi Beach
Website: Click here
- Surf, sunbathe, and watch the locals and tourists
- Grab a bite to eat or something to drink at one of the famous bars
- See the lifeguards from the famous show Bondi Rescue
Free: The beach is completely free
Duration: Typically 2 to 5 hours
Location: Bondi Beach
Suitable for: Kids, Teenagers, Young Professionals, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Seniors, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
Visiting Bondi Beach is an invitation to experience the quintessential Australian beach culture, where the golden sands, world-class surf, and vibrant atmosphere create an irresistible coastal paradise. Whether you're sunbathing, catching waves, or strolling along the iconic promenade, Bondi Beach offers a dynamic blend of relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Look out over the bridge and harbour from Observatory hill
Website: Click here
- Beautiful spot for sunrise, daytime, or sunset
- Close to the CBD and the historical Rocks area
- Book a night tour of the observatory and see the universe up close
Free: Going to Observatory Hill is free, going inside for a tour costs $36 adults / $24 children
Duration: 2 - 3 hours
Location: Observatory Hill, Sydney
Suitable for: Kids, Teenagers, Geocachers, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Seniors, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
Visiting the Sydney Observatory is a celestial journey that grants stargazers a chance to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes and learn about the wonders of the universe from knowledgeable astronomers. It's a captivating experience that combines education with awe-inspiring views of the cosmos, making it a favorite destination for both astronomy enthusiasts and curious visitors.
Swim in the harbour at Barangaroo
Website: Click here
- One of the most unique experiences to Sydney
- A brand new rock-pool has been opened in the harbour
- A truly different experience for singles, groups, couples
Free: Completely free
Duration: As long as you want to swim (15min to a few hours)
Location: Barangaroo, Sydney CBD
Suitable for: Kids, Teenagers, Geocachers, Young Professionals, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
Swimming at Barangaroo in the heart of the Sydney CBD is a truly unique Sydney experience. This pool has only recently opened at the start of 2023, and is already showing itself to be one of the best pools to swim in the world. It is walking distance from the main part of Sydney, and offers a netted harbour pool, bathrooms, showers, and rocks to sunbake on. Be careful though, because the rocks can be a bit slippery getting in and out.
Do the Skywalk and walk on the edge of Sydney's tallest building
Website: Click here
- The highest outdoor viewpoint (268m) in Sydney
- The guides point out iconic landmarks in the area
- Access to the indoor Observation Deck before and after your tour
Paid: $89 per adult, $64 per child
Duration: 60 minute tour, but allow a few hours
Location: Sydney Eye Tower, Pitt St Mall
Suitable for: Teenagers, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
"Embark on a thrilling SKYWALK tour, where you'll step out onto the highest outdoor viewpoint in Sydney, standing at an impressive 268 meters above the ground. With the city's bustling CBD directly beneath you, our knowledgeable guides will highlight iconic landmarks and share captivating stories of Sydney. Extend your experience by exploring the indoor Observation Deck before and after your tour, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views at your own pace. Don't pass up this opportunity to check off Sydney's highest outdoor adventure from your bucket list!
"
Walk over the Harbour Bridge
- Look out over the stunning Sydney Harbour
- Walk across the largest arch bridge in the world
- For a high up look, climb the bridge pylon
Free: Free to walk over the bridge (no tolls required :) )
Duration: Approx 1 hour
Location: Start at Milsons Point bridge stairs
Suitable for: Kids, Teenagers, Geocachers, Young Professionals, Young Adults, Adults, Couples, Seniors, Short on time, People with a spare few hours
Walking over the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a captivating experience that allows you to savor breathtaking views of Sydney's iconic skyline and the shimmering waters of the harbor below. As you stroll across this architectural marvel, you can't help but feel a sense of connection to the city's history and the vibrant energy of the bustling harbour beneath.