Australia

10-Day Sydney NSW Itinerary

The full day-by-day plan is below, stop by stop, with timings. Follow it, or copy it and make it yours.

10 Days

3 Itineraries

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Plan your 10-day Sydney NSW trip

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The itinerary

10 days in Sydney NSW, day by day

A real plan from a traveler on Packy AI. Follow it as it is, or copy it and change anything.

Day 1: Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge

Day 1 starts at Sydney Opera House (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for the guided tour. Next, take a 10-minute walk across the Sydney Harbour to reach the Sydney Harbour Bridge by 11:30 AM (allow 1 hour). Finally, stroll for 15 minutes to the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney by 1 PM - enjoy for 1.

9:00 AM
Sydney Opera House
Marvel at this architectural masterpiece known for its unique sail-like design and stunning harbor views. A must-visit cultural venue for performances and tours.
120 mins$40-65 AUD20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Sydney Harbour Bridge
An iconic symbol of Sydney, offering breathtaking views from its peak. Walk or bike across for a unique experience.
60 mins$18 AUD20 mins by walk to the next stop
1:00 PM
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Explore over 30 hectares of stunning gardens with native plants and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
90 minsFree

Day 2: Darling Harbour and The Rocks

Day 2 starts at Darling Harbour at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore its attractions and cafes. Take a quick 15-minute ferry to The Rocks by 12:30 PM (around $8 AUD). Spend 2 hours enjoying its historic sites and markets.

9:00 AM
Darling Harbour
A vibrant waterfront precinct with restaurants, shops, and attractions like the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, making it a great place to spend an entire day.
180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
The Rocks
Sydney's oldest neighborhood, rich in history and filled with cobblestone streets, boutiques, galleries, and food markets. A perfect blend of culture and shopping.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
3:00 PM
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Home to an impressive collection of Australian, European, and Asian art, this gallery offers enriching exhibits in a beautiful setting.
120 minsFree

Day 3: Manly Beach and Taronga Zoo Sydney

Start Day 3 at Manly Beach at 9 AM, allowing 3 hours to relax and enjoy. Travel by ferry from Circular Quay (30 mins, ~$20 AUD) to Taronga Zoo Sydney for a 12:30 PM arrival, allowing 4 hours to explore the zoo. Finally, travel back via ferry (30 mins, ~$20 AUD) to reach the Queen Victoria Building at 5 PM, allowing 1.

9:00 AM
Manly Beach
Famous for its surf and scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay, this beach offers fantastic views and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Located on the harbor, this zoo showcases native and exotic animals with breathtaking views, offering both fun and educational experiences.
240 mins$49 AUD20 mins by walk to the next stop
5:00 PM
Queen Victoria Building
A beautifully restored Victorian-era building housing high-end boutiques, cafes, and artisanal shops. A unique shopping experience in a stunning setting.
90 minsFree

Day 4: Bondi Beach and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Day 4 starts at Bondi Beach at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to enjoy the beach. Take a 30-minute bus ride (~$4 AUD) to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, arriving by 12:30 PM for a 2-hour visit. Next, take a 15-minute bus ride (~$3 AUD) to Chinatown Sydney at 3 PM, allowing 2 hours to explore its vibrant food scene and shops.

9:00 AM
Bondi Beach
Australia’s most famous beach, perfect for sunbathing and surfing, with a vibrant atmosphere. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a must-do.
180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Home to thousands of marine animals, including sharks and dugongs, this aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into underwater life from the Australian waters.
120 mins$44 AUD20 mins by walk to the next stop
3:00 PM
Chinatown Sydney
Experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Asia right in the heart of Sydney, with bustling markets and some of the best dining options.
120 minsFree

Day 5: Sydney Tower Eye and Barangaroo Reserve

Day 5 starts at Sydney Tower Eye at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to enjoy city views. Travel 15 minutes via light rail (~$4 AUD) to Barangaroo Reserve for a leisurely stroll starting at 11 AM (90 mins). Conclude at Luna Park Sydney at 1 PM - a 10-minute ferry ride ($7 AUD) for 2 hours of fun and iconic rides.

9:00 AM
Sydney Tower Eye
Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this observation deck, the tallest structure in Sydney, offering an unforgettable skyline experience.
90 mins$28 AUD20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:00 AM
Barangaroo Reserve
A stunning waterfront park with walking paths and native plantings, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying views of the harbour.
90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
1:00 PM
Luna Park Sydney
This iconic amusement park offers fun rides and games, plus picturesque views of the harbour, perfect for a family day out.
120 mins$20-80 AUD

Day 6: Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and Paddington Markets

Start at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia at 9 AM - allow 2 hours. Take a 10-minute ferry from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour (~$7 AUD) for Paddington Markets at 11:30 AM (allow 2 hours).

9:00 AM
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Showcasing contemporary art from Australia and around the world, this museum hosts thought-provoking exhibitions and overlooks the stunning Sydney Harbour.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Paddington Markets
A vibrant weekly market offering handmade crafts, fashion, and fresh produce, perfect for shopping and soaking in local culture.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
2:00 PM
Cockatoo Island
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this island features interesting historical remnants and offers beautiful views, perfect for an adventurous day out.
180 minsFree

Day 7: Campbells Cove and Bangarra Dance Theatre

Day 7 starts at Campbells Cove at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for stunning views. Take a 15-minute stroll to Bangarra Dance Theatre for a performance at 10:30 AM (1 hour). Next, a 10-minute walk leads to Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden at noon - enjoy this tranquil space for 1.5 hours.

9:00 AM
Campbells Cove
A harborside destination offering stunning views and a glimpse into Sydney's maritime history, perfect for a leisurely walk or photo op.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
10:30 AM
Bangarra Dance Theatre
Experience a unique cultural performance at Barangaroo showcasing traditional Aboriginal dance, perfect for understanding Australia's rich heritage.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:00 PM
Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden
A hidden gem in Lavender Bay, this lush and tranquil garden is perfect for a peaceful escape and picturesque views of the harbour.
90 minsFree

Day 8: Bondi to Coogee Walk and Mrs Macquarie's Chair

Day 8 starts at Bondi Beach for the Bondi to Coogee Walk at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for scenic views. Travel back to the city center via bus (15 minutes, ~$5 AUD) to arrive at Mrs Macquarie's Chair by 11:30 AM - spend 1 hour here.

9:00 AM
Bondi to Coogee Walk
This scenic coastal walk offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and parks, ideal for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Offering one of the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, this historic chair is perfect for a picnic or photo op.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
1:00 PM
Centennial Park
A great place for picnics, jogging, and enjoying nature right in the heart of Sydney.
120 minsFree

Day 9: Westfield Sydney and Paddington Reservoir Gardens

Start Day 9 at Westfield Sydney at 9 AM - allow 3 hours for shopping and dining. Take a 10-minute bus ride to Paddington Reservoir Gardens, arriving at 12:30 PM for a leisurely 1-hour stroll. Next, enjoy a 10-minute bus ride to Queen Victoria Building at 2 PM, where you can explore for 1.

9:00 AM
Westfield Sydney
One of the largest shopping malls in Sydney, featuring high-end stores and fine dining options.
180 minsVaries by shopping choices20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
Paddington Reservoir Gardens
A unique blend of heritage and modern design, it's a peaceful place to escape the city bustle.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
2:00 PM
Queen Victoria Building
An iconic shopping destination, known for its stunning architecture and diverse range of shops.
90 minsVaries by shopping choices

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What most travelers include in 10 days in Sydney NSW

Counted across 3 10-day Sydney NSW itineraries planned on Packy AI. The higher the count, the safer the pick.

1Darling Harbour5 of 3 plans
2Royal Botanic Garden Sydney5 of 3 plans
3Sydney Opera House5 of 3 plans
4Bondi Beach4 of 3 plans
5Queen Victoria Building4 of 3 plans
6Sydney Tower Eye4 of 3 plans
7Taronga Zoo Sydney4 of 3 plans
8The Rocks4 of 3 plans
9Art Gallery of New South Wales3 of 3 plans
10Barangaroo Reserve3 of 3 plans

Planning guide

What 10 days in Sydney NSW looks like

With 10 days in Sydney NSW, you have the luxury of time to fully immerse yourself in everything Australia has to offer. Explore at a leisurely pace, discover off-the-beaten-path treasures, and build meaningful connections with the local culture.

You'll experiencetop attractionsfor kidsshoppingnature and outdoors