The Top 7 Things to Know Before You Visit Sydney

Updated August 11, 2020.

If you’re headed to Australia, odds are you’ll fly into Sydney as your destination, or simply for a layover before flying off somewhere else Down Under. If that’s the case for you, here are a few Sydney-specific facts and tips!

 Getting the Shot

You can get the iconic shot of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge from MacQuaries Point, next to the Botanical Gardens.

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The classic shot! Taken from MacQuaries Point.
Keep reading: 10 Reasons to Visit Sydney

 About that Bridge

The Bridge is affectionately known as the “Coat Hanger.” You just looked up to see if it does look like a coat hanger, didn’t you?

The Walk You Can’t Miss

The side of the Sydney Harbor Bridge closest to the Opera House is for pedestrians only; the other side is for cyclists only. Pedestrians and cyclists, rejoice!

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The view from the pedestrian side of the bridge.
Short on time? How to Spend 1 Day in Sydney

 Taking the Train

The train is quick and efficient, but there is a significant surcharge for taking the train to or from the airport. As in, the base fare is AUD$4.30, but the “gate pass fee” for the airport is AUD$14.40. That means you will pay a whopping AUD$18.70 from the airport to downtown and back. Some money saving options include walking 20 minutes (with luggage) to Wolli Creek Station for AUD$4.71 each way, check Uber to compare prices, or a taxi is around AUD$30-40 each way. A taxi or Uber may be your least expensive option for parties of 3 or more.

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You can get a paper fare card, but the plastic Opal card is free!
Keep reading: Solo Travel: Sydney

“Night Safe Area”

If you do take the train, there is a designated “Night Safe” area for extra security. These areas are close to the night watch guard areas in many stations.

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Look for the writing next to the tracks!
More here: What to Know Before You Visit Australia

 Getting Around Town

Downtown Sydney is exceptionally walkable! Once you get to Circular Quay and downtown Sydney, you can walk to just about anywhere you want to go. You’ll see walkers, runners, and all sorts.

Water Taxis

Water taxis are inexpensive and scenic ways to get around Sydney Harbor and the surrounding area. Take a water taxi to Manly Beach, Taronga Zoo, and more!

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You’ll see the Yellow Water Taxis everywhere!
Want more? What to Eat in Sydney

Want more? Check out my Australia Page!

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One response to “The Top 7 Things to Know Before You Visit Sydney”

  1. […] Yes! Just look both ways twice before crossing the street! I have never felt threatened in Sydney, but as usual, be smart, don’t flash your cash, and always look like you know where you’re going. For added safety, look for the “Nightsafe Area” in the train stations; this is close to the night guard stand. For all my tips for safety traveling solo, check out my Solo Travel Page! For more on preparing for Sydney, check out What to Know Before You Visit Sydney! […]

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