Sydney , Australia

Sydney City Walking Tour

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(26 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Sydney’s CBD is brimming with history. From stories of Aboriginal leaders and convict uprisings to warring bell towers, gruesome murders, and the construction of historic landmarks, this tour covers it all. Together, we’ll uncover the city’s formation and discuss the lives of its vibrant past residents.

We’ll visit the oldest European buildings in Australia, delve into Sydney’s subterranean secrets, and discuss the city’s most elaborate architecture. Along the way, you’ll hear incredible tales of corruption, fortune, and despair.

We highlight many forgotten sites, stories and myths that have contributed to Sydney's almost unbelievable history.

Available options

Sydney City Walking Tour

What's included

Bathrooms

Detailed itinerary

A stunning twin-towered Sandstone building with beautiful carvings and detail.

Stop 2

Sydney's premier stately governmental building, the town hall boasts a massive clock tower, sandstone carved decoration and a stunning white marble staircase - a great photo backdrop!

Stop 3

This is Sydney's biggest historic building. It features copper domes, stained glass windows, two mezzanines and incredible views.

Once Australia's largest building the GPO is an incredibly lavish structure complete with amazing 19th-century carvings of Sydney scenes and people.

This quaint park showcases the anchor of an extremely important ship in Sydney's history and is also the cartographic centre of the city.

Stop 6

A stately building that houses the biggest collection of artefacts relating to a single region in the world.

Stop 7

A significant colonial building, this is the oldest public building in Australia and features Greek-inspired architecture.

Stop 8

A convict stronghold, this colonial fortress is possibly Sydney's most interesting building and features stunning Georgian architecture.

Stop 9

As the largest church in the country, St Mary's is a terrific sandstone behemoth, that is covered in amazing architectural detail.

What's not included

Lunch

Admission into Sydney Town Hall, The General Post Office, NSW Parliament and Hyde Park Barracks.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

26 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Admission into Sydney Town Hall is not included as tour timings do not allow for it

Admission into the Former General Post Office is not included as tour timings do not allow for it

Admission into NSW Parliament is not included as this is a functioning governmental building

Admission into Hyde Park Barracks is not included as tour timings do not allow for it

Not recommended for travelers who have difficulty walking long distances

Meeting point

The tour starts at the front of St Andrew's Cathedral

About Sydney

Sydney, Australia's most iconic city, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Sydney Opera House

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for performing arts.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance AUD 42-100 (tour prices vary)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the world's most famous bridges, offering spectacular views and the thrill of the BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk.

Architecture/Adventure 2-3 hours (depending on activity) AUD 174-468 (BridgeClimb prices vary)

Bondi Beach

Australia's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment Half day to full day Free (surfboard rentals and lessons cost extra)

The Rocks

A historic area with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant market scene.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (market and museum entry fees apply)

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the harbour and Opera House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avo on Toast

A simple yet iconic dish featuring avocado on toast, often topped with poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried and served with seasonal vegetables and a sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free (check for specific sauces and sides)

Tim Tams

A beloved Australian chocolate biscuit, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee, similar to a latte but with a stronger coffee flavor and velvety microfoam.

Drink Contains dairy (non-dairy options available)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Mountains Surfing at Bondi Beach BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk at Sydney Harbour Bridge Kayaking in Sydney Harbour Scuba diving in Jervis Bay Beach lounging at Bondi Beach Picnicking in the Royal Botanic Garden Spa day at a luxury hotel

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sydney, with long, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20-26°C 68-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sydney is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging.
• Purchase tickets from official sources or authorized sellers.

Getting there

By air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

By bus

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sydney's train network is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Rocks Bondi Surry Hills Newtown Barangaroo

Day trips

Blue Mountains

80 km (50 miles) from Sydney • Full day

A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Hunter Valley

120 km (75 miles) from Sydney • Full day

Australia's oldest wine region, offering beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Royal National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Sydney • Half day to full day

Australia's oldest national park, offering beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

Festivals

Sydney Festival • January Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras • February/March Sydney Writers' Festival • May

Pro tips

Use an Opal card for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
Visit iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore Sydney's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.
Take a ferry to explore the city's stunning harbour and waterfront areas.
Try local specialties like seafood, Asian cuisine, and Australian wines.