48 Hours in Sydney, Australia
Sydney is criminally underrated. Only a few hours away from the Philippines, the Australian city offers nearly everything you ever wanted from your dream Eurotrip—without having to fly halfway across the world. The climate, the people, the vibe—the Aussies know what they’re doing.
Also read:
48 Hours in Tokyo for First-Timers
48 Hours in Seoul for the Novice Traveler
If you ever find yourselves in the Emerald City, here’s a quick 48-hour guide to Sydney, Australia.
DAY 1
12 p.m. Enjoy the long drive from Sydney Airport.
Don’t be surprised by the long lines at Sydney Airport. Australian airports are notoriously strict when it comes to immigration and biohazards. But the long lines will be worth it once you’ve stepped out of Sydney Airport and taken a deep breath of that clean Australian air.
Traveling is an experience, not a checklist. Take a moment to absorb Sydney’s streets and skylines during the long drive from the airport to the city center.
1 p.m. Don your Sydney fits.
When in Australia, do as the Australians do. Your fits might have worked in Seoul or Tokyo, but Sydney is all about casual style and comfort. Trade the trench coats for downey jackets. Ditch the loafers for sneakers.
While you’re still at your hotel, download a ride-sharing app like Uber. Sydney has a great train system, but it’s still not up to par with Tokyo. Uber will get you around faster, even if it is a little pricey. We never said Sydney was cheap. On that note, make sure to come with adaptors, because they’re overpriced Down Under.
2 p.m. Grab a late lunch.
After decompressing and checking into your hotel, officially start your Sydney trip with some grub. The city is a melting pot of cultures, so grab a bite at any of Sydney’s fusion restaurants. Located in the stylish suburb of Surry Hills, Butter is a good choice for those craving basic burgers, fries, and… butter ramen.
Location: 6 Hunt Street, Surry Hills
3 p.m. Stroll through Surry Hills.
For Filipinos who endure Manila’s horrible urban planning, the walkability of Sydney is a tourist attraction in itself. Appreciate some first world urban planning with a long walk through the contemporary neighborhood of Surry Hills. As its name suggests, the suburb is made up of rolling hills, so work those calf muscles. You’ll find yourself passing countless mom-and-pop shops, co-working cafes, and other small businesses in this pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.Â
4 p.m. Make your way to Hyde Park.
Aside from the city’s walkability, Sydney is also incredibly generous with its green spaces. Situated in the heart of Sydney is Hyde Park, a sprawling urban park bordered by office buildings, commercial complexes, and historical sites. Once you’ve gotten your fill, it’s time to head to Pitt Street.
Location: Elizabeth Street
5 p.m. Shop.
Just a few blocks from Hyde Park is Pitt Street, George Street, and York Street. The entire area is comprised of storefronts, which range from Tom Ford and Grand Seiko to budget stores and indie brands. Some popular shopping complexes in the area are Pitt Street Mall, World Square, Queen Victoria Building, and The Grand Arcade.
Our personal favorite? The two-story branch of bookstore Dymocks Sydney. The 1930s art deco makes this branch a reader’s paradise.
Location: Pitt Street, George Street, and York Street
7 p.m. Eat local.
For whatever reason, Sydney stores close early so it’s best to finish your shopping spree before 7 p.m. After which, it’s time to grab a bite at a local restaurant. Fast food is hard to come by in Sydney (good for them!), so we recommend Chin Chin, an Asian fusion restaurant in Surry Hills.
Location: 69 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills
DAY 2
9 a.m. Stop by St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Located next to Hyde Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral would give any European cathedral a run for its money. The gigantic Gothic-style structure looks like it came straight out of Rome itself. We’re half convinced you’ll get extra points with God if you send a prayer from St. Mary’s.
Location: St. Mary’s Road
10 a.m. Start your trek to Sydney Harbor.
From St. Mary’s, it’s time to start your trek to Sydney Harbor. Now, it’s not that far, but why take an Uber when you can stroll through Sydney and appreciate the sights along thew way?
11 a.m. Arrive at the famed Sydney Opera House.
The Sydney Opera House is even better in person. What Finding Nemo didn’t capture was the details of the architectural wonder up close. The building really is a sight to behold, so it’s no wonder it’s become a communal area. Locals and tourists alike love to sit on the steps and enjoy the summer sun, and wedding shoots are quite common at Sydney Opera House. Don’t be afraid of the seagulls, either. But make sure to keep your food away from those clever buggers.
Location: Sydney Harbor
1 p.m. Stroll through the Botanical Garden.
From the Sydney Opera House, take a couple of steps to the Australian Rockery Lawn. Stroll through the many interconnected lawns and gardens in the area, all of which have a clear view of Sydney Harbor. For a quick bite, drop by Botanic House in the center of the giant green space for some modern Australian cuisine.
Location: Sydney Harbor
3 p.m. Peruse the shelves of the State Library of New South Wales.
We’re only a little jealous that Sydney students got to enjoy this library for school. Part library and part exhibit, this Sydney public library is perfect for bibliophiles and even digital nomads who need a quiet place to work.
Location: 1 Shakespeare Place
7 p.m. Grab dinner at World Square.
Now that your trip is ending, make one last stop to World Square on George Street. Splurge on a feast at Satang Thai Infinity to end your journey on a high note.
Location: George Street
