Sydney , Australia

Harbour Sights Running Tour

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(6 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Sydney’s iconic sights and hidden gems on our Harbour Sights Running Tour—a scenic 9km loop starting at 7:00 am in Hyde Park. Designed for casual runners, this relaxed-paced tour includes regular stops for photos, stories, and breathtaking views. We begin in leafy Hyde Park before jogging to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a convict-carved sandstone lookout with sweeping harbour views. From there, we pass Farm Cove, the Royal Botanic Garden, and pause beneath the Sydney Opera House to learn its dramatic backstory. We explore The Rocks, rich with colonial tales, before crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On the north side, we wind through charming Kirribilli and visit Wendy’s Secret Garden, a tranquil sanctuary tucked beside the harbour. The tour finishes with coffee at a local café and a scenic ferry ride back to Circular Quay. Perfect for visitors and locals alike, it’s a unique way to see Sydney—before the city even wakes up.

Available options

Harbour Sights Tour

What's included

Included ferry ride from Kirribilli to Circular Quay to finish the tour

A post tour coffee or alternative drink is included

A wonderful tour guide to lead the way and share the stories of Sydney with you

Photos will be taken for you so all you need to do is look around and take it all in

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

We begin in Hyde Park, Sydney’s oldest public park and a peaceful green space steeped in colonial history.

Stop 2 Pass by

At Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, we take in panoramic harbour views and hear stories of convicts, governors, and grand visions.

Stop 3 Pass by

Beneath the Opera House sails, we unpack the story of this world-famous icon—from controversy to cultural triumph.

Stop 4 Pass by

In The Rocks, we jog through cobbled laneways filled with tales of convicts, trade, crime, and resilience.

Stop 5 Pass by

Crossing the Harbour Bridge, we enjoy breathtaking skyline views and reflect on the bridge’s epic engineering legacy.

We run through Kirribilli, a harbourside village home to heritage charm and Australia’s political residences.

Stop 7

We finish with coffee by the water and then catch a ferry back to Circular Quay.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities are not required

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 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

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Fitness to run 10kms at a relaxing pace

Please wear suitable running gear

Please do not bring bags

Meeting point

Meet at the Hyde Park Fountain (Archibald Fountain)
There are restrooms nearby to this location.

Important notes

Please wear suitable running attire.

Note that there is nowhere to store bags or luggage
**There is no need to print this ticket**

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.