The Top Things to do in Sydney

Location: 427 Reservoir Rd, Sydney, NSW

On a hot summer day, there is no better way to cool down than with a visit to Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney. Located a short distance from the city centre, this theme park will be a hit with not only the children but the parents too.

Home to an array of different water slides, pools and rides, you’ll find a number of world first attractions and interactive ride technology taking the fun and excitement of this experience to the extreme.

For the adrenalin loving members of the family, take a ride on the world’s tallest double SkyCoaster as you’re strapped into a harness 75 metres in the air for a one of a kind free fall experience.

Or, for something a bit tamer, relax at the man-made beach complete with white sandy shores free from rips (and sharks).

"On a hot summer day, there is no better way to cool down than with a visit to Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney."

Best of all, if you’re travelling with any young children or toddlers, Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney is home to their unique Nickelodeon Beach splash zones perfect for the smaller crowds.

Complete with shaded areas, a giant tipping bucket and some favourite Nickelodeon characters including Spongebob and Patrick who are there to join in on all the excitement.

With plenty of fully qualified lifeguards covering all areas of the park, be confident that you won’t only be in for a fun time, but also a safe one. Just a tip to save any disappointment be sure to check the website before visiting to check for any possible ride closures.

Location: 123 Mulgoa Rd, Penrith, NSW

For an attraction your kids will absolutely love, you can’t look past the iFLY Downunder Centre in Penrith, Western Sydney. Perfect for those too young to skydive, the iFLY Downunder Centre mimics the feeling of the real, stomach-dropping fall minus the fear.

With packages specifically for children, and more thrilling ones for the adults, all members of the family will be able to enjoy a tailored replica skydive.

"Indoor skydiving with iFLY is a low impact activity that anyone can do whether you are 3 or 103 in a safe and controlled environment."

Indoor Sky Diving simply involves leaning forward inside the giant glass tunnel into a column of air and floating effortlessly into flight. With the assistance from one of the very qualified instructors, you will be soaring to the top and performing flips and stunts in no time.

In this state of the art environment, know your kids, partner or self will be ultra safe. If you’re after a unique and exciting way to entertain the kids next holiday, this is the one you have to try.

Location: 75 O’Riordan Street Alexandria, Sydney, QLD

Bounce, flip, dodge and climb your way to fun at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park on your next Sydney trip. Claiming the title for the world’s first indoor trampoline park, let the kids run wild, as they jump from trampoline to trampoline, bouncing off every wall they come by.

While at the park kids can also make use of their popular attraction, Sky Climb, a replica rock climbing wall perfect for learners or masters at scaling vertical heights. Situated in Alexandria, Sydney, Sky Zone will be a guaranteed hit with your children. Best of all, you can join in on all the fun too.

"Claiming the title for the world’s first indoor trampoline park, let the kids run wild, as they jump from trampoline to trampoline, bouncing off every wall they come by."

Take part in a game of indoor dodge ball or test your basketball skills and see how many hoops you can shoot, best of all, you get extra spring from the trampolines. Or for the parents, join in on a Skyfit class, the newest form of exercise helping Australians get fit and healthy.

There is so much to do at Sky Zone for everyone that there is no way any of the family will get bored. Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park is not only guaranteed to provide your children with tons of fun, but to also wear them out of all their energy ensuring you a relaxing rest of your day.

Location: 114-120 Lang Rd, Moore Park, NSW

Located in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, Pony Rides at Centennial Park are a sure fire way to win your children over on your next Sydney trip.

Being led by a guide in a safe environment, watch as they make their way around the designated track in this introductory horse-riding lesson.

Recommended for kids aged 2 to 10, this great price attraction runs every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year excluding wet weather days.

"Pony Rides at Centennial Park are a sure fire way to win your children over on your next Sydney trip."

Once their pony ride is over, take advantage of the sprawling 163-hectare park complete with open areas, lush greenery and stunning ponds and rivers.

Enjoy a family picnic, go for a bike ride or use one of the public BBQ’s, no matter what you choose, this park makes for a very versatile and fun day out.

Best of all, the great attractions don’t just stop at pony rides, you’ll also find a number of other great events including beekeeping lessons, moonlight cinemas, and even meditation sessions.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to keep the children happy on your next visit, don’t look past a trip to Centennial Parklands.

Location: 31 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, NSW

Sit back, relax and enjoy one of the latest blockbuster films on one of the world’s biggest screens at the IMAX Theatre. Located conveniently at Darling Harbour, the theatre is in direct walking distance of all the iconic sites Sydney is famous for.

This easily accessible theatre is perfect for those trying to escape a rainy day, or perhaps the heat of a hot summer’s day. Alternatively, you might just be looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to keep the children entertained.

"The screen, that measures 35.7 metres in width and 29.7 metres in height, will leave not only kids, but parents absolutely gob smacked by the mind blowing visual experience."

Pick up some popcorn and lollies, grab a seat and expect to be thrilled by the power and clarity of this masterpiece theatre.

This unique film experience is like nothing you will have ever witnessed before at your usual cinema. The screen, that measures 35.7 metres in width and 29.7 metres in height, will leave not only kids, but parents absolutely gob smacked by the mind blowing visual experience. For anyone visiting Sydney, the IMAX Theatre is an attraction you can’t pass up.

Location: 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point, NSW

Step through the iconic open mouth of the Luna Park smile, and be certain that the smile on your kids faces won’t be wiped off for the whole day. Experience all the magic and excitement of Luna Park by day or night and get ready for a wacky but wonderful time.

Home to an array of great rides that will please all levels of thrill, from the adrenaline junkie through to the more timed rider, you can be certain that no one will be disappointed.

"Luna Park is one of Sydney's most iconic sites and the smiling face at the front entrance is the epitome of what you will feel when you spend time her as a family on the amusement rides, attractions and sideshow games."

Take a ride on the ferris wheel, master the Mirror Maze or sit back and enjoy one of the quirky shows – there’s so much to do that the kids will never want to leave.

Located in the lower North Shore of Sydney, Luna Park is very accessible, with trains, ferries and buses all frequenting the Park daily. Our hot tip would be to have a big nights sleep the evening before to ensure you and your children have the energy to go and go and go.

With plenty of great food outlets, shaded areas and things to do, Luna Park is one to add to the top of your list.

Location: Taronga Zoo: Bradley’s Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088; WILD LIFE/Sydney: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, NSW; Featherdale: 217 Kildare Rd, Doonside; Sydney Symbio: 7-11 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Helensburgh

A pair of Australia’s leading wildlife attractions, both Taronga Zoo, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Featherdale Wildlife Park and Sydney Symbio Wildlife Park offer some of the best animal experiences in the state. Kids will love visiting these zoo’s, as they are home to a range of native animals alongside a diverse gathering of exotic species.

Visits to both facilities replicate journeys through much of Australia, from the arid outback and eucalyptus woodlands to the lush rainforests of the tropics.

"Enjoy the chance to get up close and personal with kangaroos and cute wallabies in their red desert habitats, cuddle koalas, get kissed by parrots and so much more!"

Hands-on chances with animals are always a favourite activity for children. Enjoy the chance to get up close and personal with kangaroos and cute wallabies in their red desert habitats, cuddle koalas, get kissed by parrots and so much more!

Plan ahead for your visit to one of these zoos to ensure the day is not too exhausting for you as parents – some good tips include:

• Buy your zoo tickets online so that you can skip the queue and get express entry, best of all you’ll get a discounted price too!
• Plan your day out by working out which animals your kids want to see and work out a route, maps and daily timetables are available online.
• Make use of stroller hire if necessary for younger kids.
• Bring a picnic blanket as there are great places to enjoy a picnic around Taronga Zoo while taking in panoramic views that surround the facilities and it’s a perfect way to relax for a few minutes.

Location: SEA LIFE Sydney: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000; Manly SEA LIFE: W Esplanade, Manly, NSW

With so many unique and wonderful sea creatures calling these two Sydney based attractions home, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary will leave both you and your children amazed for hours.

Both of these very reasonably priced aquariums are located within approximately twenty minutes drive of one another, with SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium located on Darling Harbour while Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary sits slightly further to the north alongside Manly Cove.

"At SEA LIFE Sydney and SEA LIFE Manly, you'll be introduced to an array of quirky tropical fish, dugongs, sharks, penguins and even giant turtles just to name a few!"

These two magical underwater realms will take you and your children on an adventure into the deep world under the sea. You’ll be introduced to an array of quirky tropical fish, dugongs, sharks, penguins and even giant turtles just to name a few!

Learn all there is to know about these beautiful creatures in one of the free show-and tell sessions, take a wander through the glass underwater tunnel and be amazed as thousands of fish and marine life swim above and beside you.

You can even see the animals being fed or get up close and personal in one of the interactive zones, best of all, this is only just the start of all the fun that can be had at these two great attractions!

Location: 500 Harris Street, Ultimo, Sydney, NSW

A visit to Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum is never a dull day for the family with interesting permanent and visiting exhibitions all year round exploring both the art and science worlds.

The Powerhouse Museum is centrally located in Sydney and parents will love that it is free entry for children until the age of 16.

Among some of the permanent exhibitions that can be found here are the EcoLogic exhibit, Space and Boulton and Watt Engine.

Turn the day into an educational experience with hands on, interactive activities and games in the EcoLogic exhibit.

Children can learn all about the science behind climate change and global warming plus gain a deeper understanding about precious resources such as water in a game that challenges children to conserve and manage Sydney’s water system during droughts, natural disasters, maintain pumps, dams and sewerage systems all with a growing population.

"Filled to the brim with activities for the kids, the Powerhouse Museum is a fun yet educational experience for the whole family."

The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences housed within the same building showcases art displays including the Fantastic Worlds exhibition.

Children who love anything space related (and perhaps quite a few parents) will love the Space Exhibition with the opportunity to experience the illusion of weightlessness and tour the International Space Station as narrated by Australian Astronaut Dr Andy Thomas and his wife Dr Shannon Walker.

Any questions that you have about space will be answered here including gaining an appreciation of how they live, eat, work and sleep in space and why their work is important to us down here on earth.

The exhibit also features live size space shuttles and satellites as well as a variety of videos and incredible photo imagery from space.

And if you still aren’t convinced to visit the Powerhouse Museum then past the hugely anticipated Star Wars: Identities exhibit that is due to open in November 2018 till June 2019 may get you over the line.

The Powerhouse Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm and with an ever changing roster of exhibits all year round no visit is ever the same.

Location: Parklands, Plough & Harrow East, Western Sydney, 749 Elizabeth Dr, Abbotsbury, NSW

An adrenaline-filled attraction with a difference, Sydney’s Treetops Adventure Park is a well-constructed high ropes course situated smack-bang in the western suburbs of Sydney.

It’s an attraction that has been designed for kids first, but also keeps parents very much in mind.

Let the kids play on any of the 100 aerial attractions spread out over a generous 8 courses, whilst parents can kick back and enjoy lunch or a coffee from the numerous cafes and other facilities within.

The Treetops puts a high priority on safety without detracting from the fun. There are numerous qualified instructors and supervisors on hand, while all of the safety equipment provided is top-notch helping to alleviate any fears parents may have.

Crawling, climbing and ziplining are all options at the Treetop Adventure Park with kids able to try activities encompassing all of these actions and there’s even a decent water play area for some aquatic fun on the hotter days of the year.

"Treetop Adventure Park has over 100 aerial attractions spread out over 8 courses which are sure to keep the kids busy while parents can kick back with a coffee."

The park's courses are divided into junior, child and adult courses which increase in difficulty. Each session lasts around 2 to 3 hours and participants are free to complete the courses as much as they wish.

This is a self-paced activity that you can take part in within your allotted time slot as you navigate elevated rope ladders, wobbly bridges, tunnels, cargo- nets and zip lines.

Incidentally, it’s also become a highly popular destination for kids’ parties since its inception. If you’re looking for a party venue for kids aged around 6 years and older, this is almost a guaranteed-hit. Keep in mind, on warmer days and during peak seasons the park is likely to be quite busy.

Challenging but not scary, fun yet safe, central yet offering a sense of escapism from the city, the Treetops Adventure Park is an easy to recommend go-to attraction for anyone with kids in Sydney. Remember to book in advance however, to be sure not to miss out.

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney Harbour NSW

While we suppose that "Sydney Harbour" in general could be listed here, the Sydney Opera House stands apart from the rest of the harbour's icons.

Perhaps Australia's most famous man-made icon worldwide, the Sydney Opera House is a unique feat of architectural design and engineering that helps add tremendously to the character of the already scenic Sydney Harbour.

A structure that was formed out of a rare combination of innovation, creativity and controversy, the Sydney Opera House is a remarkable building that is host to over 1,500 performances that draw audiences of around 1.2 million people each year.

"A structure that was formed out of a rare combination of innovation, creativity and controversy, the Sydney Opera House is a remarkable building that is host to over 1,500 performances that draw audiences of around 1.2 million people each year."

The Opera House can be found on Sydney Harbour's Bennelong Point at the northeastern tip of the Sydney CBD and is surrounded on three sides by the harbour, and is often seen in pictures and postcards along with the nearby Sydney Harbour Bridge, both of which usually combine to provide an overall representation of the Sydney Harbour panorama.

A triumph of modern architecture for which its designer, Danish architect Jorn Utzon, won the Pritzker Price (the field of architecture's highest award) in 2003, the Sydney Opera House has been labelled as one of the great iconic buildings of the entire 20th century, and is an image of great beauty that has become known throughout the world as a symbol for not only the city of Sydney, but for the entire country and continent of Australia as a whole.

Numerous tours are available which aim to encompass all of the main highlights and features of Sydney Harbour, with some placing specific emphasis on the Opera House itself - no visit to Sydney is complete without taking in the majesty of this famous feat of construction.

Location: Various Locations, Sydney

There is no better way to see the landmarks of Sydney than to take to the skies on a scenic flight high above the city and be rewarded with impressive aerial views.

Joy flights are a great way to discover to a new city and get the lay of the land. They may also give you ideas on what other areas you might like to visit after your flight.

Unlike other international cities, Sydney is not just a concrete jungle but a growing urban, city by the coast with large green spaces and one of the most beautiful harbours in the world.

Join a scenic flight to discover the city sights from the air including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour and waterfront homes with their million dollar views.

"Unlike other international cities, Sydney is not just a concrete jungle but a growing urban, city by the coast with large green space and one of the most beautiful harbours in the world."

Depending on the length of the scenic flight, you may also get the chance to fly over Bondi Beach, Taronga Zoo, Rose Bay and other popular city sights.

Sydney has a range of scenic flight options including seaplane flights over the city highlights, helicopter flights and even hot air balloon rides at sunrise.

Although scenic flights can often be pricey, Sydney really is a beautiful Australian city and passengers all agree afterwards that it is money well spent.

Land based tours can provide you with a close up look at a variety of tourist attractions but aerial flights will give you the chance to capture the entire harbour in one spectacular photo.

Whether you are a local, a visitor doing some sightseeing or an eager photographer, a flight over Sydney is one activity that you should add to your bucket list at least once in your lifetime.

Location: Bondi Beach, Sydney

When people think of Sydney or indeed Australia, one of the iconic images they get in their mind is of surfers at Bondi Beach.

This world famous beach is home to the oldest surf lifesaving club in the world with a colourful history of the bikini and beach inspectors, festivals, sculptures, Bondi Rescue and the now infamous Bondi Hipster.

It is also one of Australia’s National Surfing Reserves. Don’t just sit on the beach and watch, get in amongst the action and learn to surf with your very own surf lesson.

Bondi Beach surf lessons are suitable for beginners with no experience necessary. Expert local and international surfers guide you through the process from boarding up to learning the basics to get you up catching your very first wave.

2 hour group lessons are available and are run in groups no larger than five so that each surfer can get the personalised attention needed to get you on your feet in the very first lesson.

"Once you grasp the basics, this is one skill that you can take away with you for the rest of your life and try out at any beach destination in the world leaving you with long lasting memories."

A surf lesson is a great activity to do and will definitely leave you with a smile on your face even if it is just to laugh at yourself when you first attempt to stand and fall off your board.

Once you grasp the basics, this is one skill that you can take away with you for the rest of your life and try out at any beach destination in the world leaving you with long lasting memories of that time when you learnt to surf and caught your first wave on Bondi Beach, Sydney.

If you are really serious about learning how to surf or you would like to improve your ability then we recommend taking a private lesson so that you have the undivided attention of your surf instructor to master the skill.

Surf lessons are available 365 days of the year unless the surf conditions are unsafe.

A surf lesson at the iconic Bondi Beach is one of the most popular things to do in Sydney and for many is an authentic travel experience that you can take away with you and remember long after your visit to the city.

Location: 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point, NSW

Luna Park Sydney is one of the most iconic city landmarks steeped in history and providing laughter and entertainment to all those who visit.

The amusement park is a nod to the old school days featuring some of the remnants of the 1930’s Art Deco style architecture.

The concept was designed on the successful Coney Island in New York featuring the staple wooden rollercoasters and side show games and attractions. A place for young and old to come along for hours of entertainment.

Luna Park originally opened in Sydney on October 4, 1935 and is one of the oldest surviving amusement parks of the 20th century. During WWII the park was a respite for servicemen providing light entertainment during a tense time in Australian history.

And although the park has had a tumultuous history with declining age, a series of ownership changes and the threat of redevelopment, Luna Park Sydney has survived due in part to the support of locals and a heritage listing status awarded in 2010.

The park’s location on Milson’s Point and colourful ‘smiling face’ entrance makes it a landmark that attracts visitors from far and wide with its harbourside views, carnival atmosphere and nostalgia.

"The concept was designed on the successful Coney Island in New York featuring the staple wooden rollercoasters and side show games and attractions. A place for young and old to come along for hours of entertainment."

The amusement park now features modern thrill rides, family friendly attractions and sideshow games plus several dining options that offer a quality sit down meal or a quick bite to eat.

The upgraded Luna Park also features a concert venue and private facilities for conferences, parties and weddings with fantastic harbourside views.

Whether you are young or simply young at heart, a stroll around Luna Park is a great way to spend a few hours in Sydney. Ride the Ferris Wheel, zip around on the crazy mouse rollercoaster, test your nerves in the haunted ‘Mystery Manor’ or take a ‘Wonky Walk’ in the Coney Island Funny Land.

Luna Park operating hours change throughout the year so we advise checking the website before your visit but the park is always open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The best way to get to Luna Park is via a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay to Milson Point Wharf. You won’t miss it as the ferry stops directly in front of the iconic Luna Park Sydney face.

Entry prices with unlimited ride passes begin from $25 and are based on heights rather than age limit.

Location: Circular Quay- Eastern Pontoon, Sydney Harbour

If you are looking to add a bit of excitement into your day then a spin on an extreme jet boat ride may be just the thing to pick you up in between sightseeing.

This popular activity operates in the heart of the city from Circular Quay- Eastern Pontoon – just metres from the Sydney Opera House.

Thrilling 30 minute jet boat rides are a fun way to see the iconic sights of Sydney Harbour including the Harbour Bridge, The Rocks precinct, Sydney Opera House and majestic cruise liners that dock right in the city.

Race past harbour front mansions and iconic sights for a ‘hot lap’ where you will be taken on 270 degree spins, speeds, slides and fish tails and wave jumping and surfing.

"Race past harbour front mansions and iconic sights for a ‘hot lap’ where you will be taken on 270 degree spins, speeds, slides and fish tails and wave jumping and surfing."

Go flying through the air at incredible speeds that will get your adrenaline pumping. On board music add to the experience providing a soundtrack to your exciting adventure.

At times, the captain will stop to point out interesting landmarks and provide you with commentary before the adventure continues past Luna Park, Shark and Clarke Island and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

All eyes are on you as the turbo charged jet boats spin through the water creating a mass white wash capturing the attention of passersby who watch on with envy.

Expect to get wet! It is the name of the game here but waterproof ponchos are available if you wish to reduce the amount of water you get hit with.

Whether you are looking for a weekend activity or a fun yet extreme sightseeing adventure, consider jet boating ride along the Sydney Harbour.

Location: Aquarium Wharf, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour

Pay a visit to this zany tourist attraction in Darling Harbour, Sydney and you can have your very own brush of fame mingling with the stars.

Madame Tussauds world famous wax museum arrived on Australian shores in 2012 and showcases an evolving display of sporting legends, superheroes, infamous characters, political leaders and moments in pop culture.

The Australian location can be found on the Darling Harbour foreshore welcoming visitors through its doors between 10am to 6pm daily.

Made famous worldwide with the help of social media, come along and capture an Instagram worthy pic with your favourite movie star, musician or popular figures.

Marvel at the uncanny likeness of the stars here with wax works that typically take four months to make by a team of 20 skilled artists using real hair and costs over $300, 000 to produce.

The museum is broken up into separate zones that are elaborately themed to immerse you into each setting.

"Marvel at the uncanny likeness of the stars here with wax works that typically take four months to make by a team of 20 skilled artists using real hair and costs over $300, 000 to produce."

Madame Tussauds Sydney begins with a journey back into Australian history to see figures such as Captain Cook and the HMAS endeavour and famous outlaw Ned Kelly.

Meet influential political leaders and politicians such as Gandhi, members of the Royal Family and Australian Prime ministers and US President before heading into the next area with all your favourite sporting legends.

Next, step into the recording booth and lay down some tracks with Adele, Taylor Swift, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga or John Farnham plus party at a live music festival in a virtual reality experience.

Madame Tussauds Sydney now has a dedicated zone featuring Marvel and Justice League super heroes. In this interactive experience, help superman save the day alongside Batman, wonder woman, dead pool and more.

Then walk the red carpet with supermodels and fashion icons, step into a Hollywood party and meet the Hemsworth brothers, Steve Irwin, Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie.

Madame Tussauds Sydney gives visitors their 15 minutes of fame and once in a lifetime chance to meet all your favourite stars. For a bit of a fun and a giggle, make sure you add this quirky wax museum to your Sydney top 10 sights to visit.

Location: 1-5 Wheat Road, Sydney NSW

One of the staple wildlife adventures in Sydney, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a great aquatic attraction that features five separate habitat exhibitions of Aussie ocean, estuarine and river creatures and also serves as one of the best things to do with your kids in Sydney to boot.

An underwater adventure in which you'll be able to walk and explore the rich and diverse aquatic life and habitats of Australia's ocean-dwelling animals, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is situated in a convenient location near Sydney Harbour's Circular Quay making accessing it a breeze due to all the available transport options.

Home to thousands of tropical, cold, fresh and salt water fishes, mammals and dozens of others of amazing species on display, expert commentary is also provided along the way via a range of free show-and-tell sessions as you see the animals being fed and much more.

"SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a great aquatic attraction that features five separate habitat exhibitions of Aussie ocean, estuarine and river creatures and also serves as one of the best things to do with your kids in Sydney to boot."

Such animal highlights as giant stingrays, a variety of sharks, giant sea turtles and much more await to be encountered, with the often-praised highlight being the walk-through exhibit that will leave you surrounded by marine life on all sides.

The seal show is also a big hit! Due to its high level of popularity, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium can often get quite crowded; this problem can be alleviated however by buying your tickets online with Experience Oz which will allow you to skip the queue!

Location: 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW

Affectionately known to Australians as the coathanger due to its arch design, the construction of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge was completed in 1932 and alongside the Sydney Opera House has become an international symbol of Australia.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is the largest steel arch bridge in the world linking Sydney and the North Shore. The bridge was a significant infrastructure project of the 20th Century that is now heavily used (almost at capacity) to move traffic on rail, vehicles, bicycle and pedestrians around the city.

The bridge is positioned over the Sydney Harbour and stands tall at 134 metres above the water level and its striking design is one of the first thing that visitors via plane or cruise ship will see as they enter Sydney.

The steel bridge weighs 52, 800 tonnes and is supported by two high concrete pylons which are purely aesthetic and hold no structural purpose but are now home to a museum, tourist centre and a bridge climb facility.

The incredible engineering feat took almost 11 years to complete and despite incredibly lax safety by today’s standards only two men fell from the bridge during construction.

"The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge was completed in 1932 and alongside the Sydney Opera House has become an international symbol of Australia."

The bridge was formally opened on 19 March 1932 with the intention of the New South Wales Premier to cut the ribbon, however, right before the ribbon was to be cut a man in military uniform rode on horseback and cut the ribbon on behalf of the people. The ribbon was quickly retied so that the ceremony could be re-performed.

Aside from its incredible history, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has become home to the Bridge Climb Experience which began in 1998 offering locals and visitors the chance to climb the steel arches.

This experience has quickly become one of the most sought after activity in Sydney that even many dignitaries and celebrities have joined the tour and climbed the steps to the top of the harbour bridge.

The draw for visitors is the incredible views once you reach the summit. Climbers are rewarded with a backdrop of the Sydney Opera House, the city skyline and then the multi-million dollar mansions and beaches as far as the eye can see.

Sydney Harbour Bridge climbs are often both day and night but for a truly memorable experience we recommend a sunrise or sunset climb to get a bird’s eye view of the city waking up or winding down for the day.

Location: 100 Market St, Sydney NSW

Formerly known as Centrepoint Tower, Sydney Tower Eye is a great place to use as a starting point from which to get your bearings when visiting Sydney for the first time.

Offering magical 360-degree views of the city, it will give you not only some panoramic scenery to look at by also an idea as to what and where everything is situated which can help greatly for planning out your transport options for the rest of your trip.

Binoculars are available at the top of the tower free of charge, allowing you to zoom in on points of interest when gazing upon them from afar, and as with any viewing tower, be sure to take your camera for some unforgettable snapshots of the view that stretches out to the harbour, the Blue Mountains and beyond.

"Offering magical 360-degree views of the city, it will give you not only some panoramic scenery to look at by also an idea as to what and where everything is situated which can help greatly for planning out your transport options for the rest of your trip."

With only one accommodation facility on the island; the aptly-named Lizard Island Resort, you can expect to pay a starting price of around $1,400 per night (minimum 2 nights stay) for the entry level Anchor Bay Room.

Admission to Sydney Tower Eye also comes with a bonus "4-D" show included in the price that provides a simulation of an amazing flight through Sydney, showcasing the sights and sounds of the city while including in-theatre effects including bubbles, wind and fire which add an extra dimension to the experience.

Location: Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour, NSW

No visit to Sydney is complete without a cruise out on the Sydney Harbour and a visit to one of the most picturesque zoos in the world- Taronga Zoo. If you are clever, you can combine the two and get a Taronga Zoo and Ferry Pass.

Departing from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, step aboard a fast catamaran and enjoy a scenic harbour cruise with informative commentary. In just 20 minutes, the cruise will pull into the Taronga Zoo Ferry terminal for a fun filled day at the zoo.

Hop aboard the Sky Safari Cable Car and ride over the top of Taronga Zoo to get the lay of the (zoo)land. With a huge assortment of species including Australian and international wildlife, visitors can interact with elephants, giraffes, zebras, koalas and more here.

"No visit to Sydney is complete without a cruise out on the Sydney Harbour and a visit to one of the most picturesque zoos in the world- Taronga Zoo."

Educational animals talks and presentations are held here at various times throughout the day all with a beautiful backdrop of Sydney Harbour. When you are ready to wind up the day, jump back on the ferry and head back to Circular Quay or Darling Harbour.

The reasons why we at Experience Oz really like this value for money pass though is because it includes a 2 day Sydney Harbour Hop On Hop Off ferry ticket so you can explore the Sydney Harbour further an a second day.

Travel between Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Luna Park, Manly for 2 days. And you will want to because Sydney is arguably one of the most beautiful harbours in the world.