The Ultimate Guide To A Weekend Getaway In Sydney
With over 70 hostels ‘round the country, from Adelaide to Alice Springs, Bunbury to Byron Bay and all that’s in between, they’ve got a room for you, wherever you want to go!
There’s no shortage of fun things to do and incredible spots to explore in Sydney, but how do you pack the absolute best into a single weekend? It’s a good question, and one we can definitely answer.
Whether you’re visiting the big smoke from out of town or are a Sydney-sider looking to fall in love with the Harbour City all over again, there are a few quintessential Sydney experiences and activities you’ve simply gotta check off your weekend-in-Sydney bucket list.
What You’ve Gotta See
View this post on Instagram
It really doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50th time visiting Sydney, the sights of Circular Quay seriously never get old.
One of the most recognisable waterfronts in the world, Circular Quay has gotta be your first stop for wandering, people-watching, and getting acquainted with the city’s unbeatable vibe.
Take a stroll along the harbour, towards the Royal Botanic Gardens. On your right, you’ll peep a bunch of cafes, brunch spots, and souvenir shops where you can pick up a kitschy fridge magnet or cork hat for your mum (you know she’ll love it).
View this post on Instagram
On the left, you’ll spot two of the city’s most famous residents – the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. If you’re keen for more exploring, you’re on the path to the always-beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens.
Where? Circular Quay
How much? Free! (Minus a few bucks for the fridge magnet)
Where To Get Amongst The Action
View this post on Instagram
There are SO MANY fun activities to get around in Sydney. There’s Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, countless museums and galleries filled to the brim with stunning artworks, or even the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, should you be seeking a view like no other.
But if you’re in a city surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, you’d be totally mad not to check at least one of them out – that’s why you’ll hear many a Sydney-sider recommend you hop on a ferry to Manly.
If you’re happy to take your time, you can hop on the commuter ferry – it’s cheaper but takes around half an hour. Luckily, you’ll have some killer views to keep you occupied and, weather permitting, you can soak up some rays on the iconic ferry’s deck. Alternatively, halve the travel time for a few extra dollars by catching the fast ferry.
Once you’re over the harbour, make your most of your time “OTB” (“over the bridge”, in Sydney-speak). Take a hike along the Manly to Spit walking trail, learn to Surf with Manly Surf School, knock the froth off a few at Manly’s very own 4 Pines brewery, climb to the top of Grotto Point Lighthouse, or simply go for a swim and sunbake at Manly Beach.
View this post on Instagram
Best of all, making your way back to the city is just another cruisy ferry ride away.
Where? Manly
How much? Commuter ferry tickets are $6.80 each way.
Where To Kick Back And Chill
View this post on Instagram
One of the cardinal rules of exploring a city is factoring in time to breathe and relax. To soak up the vibes, you know? This is why you should use this weekend getaway to watch that cinema release you’ve been dying to see.
Golden Age Cinema and Bar is the place to go in Sydney for a luxe-as-hell movie night. It’s as close as you can get to the lush cinema experience you see in old-school movies (it’s even inside an old Art Deco building from the ‘40s), but it shows big new releases and comes complete with a cocktail bar and kitchen. You know, just for that extra splash of style.
It even shows classic and cult movies, so you can catch one of your old faves in absolute style.
Where? 88 Commonwealth Street, Sydney
How much? Adult tickets are $22 plus a booking fee
What To Sink Your Teeth Into
If you’re really only in Sydney for 48 hours, there’s no time to mess around. It’s only the best of the best for you, which is why you should hit up Hubert.
View this post on Instagram
You’ll find the Hubert on Bligh Street, in the heart of downtown Sydney. This underground French bistro is more than just a place to eat – it’s a fully immersive experience.
It’s as much about the ambience, good conversation and laughter, as well as (of course) excellent food and wine. So, cosy up in its warm and inviting setting, listen to some jazz, and settle in for a night of great company and even better food.
Where? 15 Bligh Street, Sydney
How much? Enjoy the three-course menu for $60.
When breakky rolls around the next day, make a bee-line for The Grounds of Alexandria. The sprawling café compound is famed for its lush gardens and house-made everything, making it a feast for the eyes and the stomach.
View this post on Instagram
Try your luck with a seat inside or perch in the garden for everything from fresh-baked breads and pastries to gourmet hot dogs and flavour-packed shakes, then poke around the flower stalls for something you can take home with your or pay a visit to The Grounds’ most famous resident, Kevin Bacon.
Where: 7A/2 Huntley Street, Alexandria
Where To Rest Your Head
View this post on Instagram
We don’t care who you ask, paying a butt-tonne for accommodation is a straight-up scam. After all, it’s literally just a place to recharge your batteries overnight. Luckily, there are options that are smack-bang in the middle of the city, are super comfortable, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Enter: Sydney Central YHA.
Sydney Central YHA is a five-star rated hostel, with a bunch of different room offerings available. You can score dirt-cheap accommodation if you’re keen on making some mates in a shared room or, if you’d rather keep to yourself, you can opt for a private room instead.
Besides being heaps cheap, the hostel is literally just across the road from Central Station, hooking you up with all the trains, trams and buses that’ll get you anywhere you want to go in the city.
Where? Sydney Central YHA, 11 Rawson Place, Sydney
How much? Rates start at $30.50 per person, per night.
—
(Lead image: Holger Link / Unsplash)
—
Sydney Central YHA offers CBD-luxe on a hostel budget, leaving you more cash to drink your way through the 4 Pines Brewery and max-relax at Golden Age Cinema. They’re offering our readers 10 percent off all bookings from 10 August to 30 September, using the code HEYSYDNEY at checkout. Book now, thank yourself later.