Why You Should Visit Sydney  

No matter where you’re coming from, let’s be honest — it’s a long flight. So is spending one week in Sydney really worth it? Let me tell you, the answer is a resounding yes.

Sydney, Australia is one of those rare places that has something for everyone. It blends vibrant city energy with laid-back beach vibes in the best way, with scenic coastal walks and jaw-dropping harbour views around every corner.

Sydney Tips You’ll Need to Know 

• Contactless Pay: Every restaurant, store, or attraction we visited all took contactless pay. Therefore, we never had a reason to take Australian Dollars.
  
• No Opal card needed: Tourists can skip buying an Opal card. All metro trains, buses, and ferries accept tap-on/tap-off with a contactless credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX) or mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Wallet).
  
• Use an eSIM for data: Avoid expensive international plans. I used Sim Local and had reliable coverage across Sydney at a fraction of the cost. Setup took minutes. Use my code “POPOVER” for 10% off your eSim with Sim Local. 
  
• Drive on the left: Australians drive (and walk) on the left side of the road—easy to forget at first.
• Weather changes fast: Sydney can go from sunny to windy to rainy in one day. Book outdoor activities early in your itinerary so you can reschedule if needed.
• Sun protection is essential: UV levels regularly hit 11+ (extreme) in summer. Pack more sunscreen than you think, plus sunglasses and a hat.

✈️ Flying to Australia 

One big misconception I had before flying to Australia was totally psyching myself out over the flight time. You always hear people say, “I’d love to go to Australia, but that flight is just too long,” and I was definitely one of those people… until I actually did it.

Honestly? The flight was way easier than I expected. Dare I say, not bad at all. Don’t let the flight time be the thing that stops you from visiting one of the most beautiful countries in the world — it’s 100% worth it.

I recommend using Skyscanner to compare routes and find the cheapest prices from your home airport.

We flew nonstop from Dallas (DFW) to Sydney (SYD), and the total flight time was about 18 hours and 30 minutes. Below are my go-to travel tips to make a long-haul flight feel way more manageable (and even kind of enjoyable). 

Survival Tips for the Long Flight 

• Airline App: Download your airline’s app before your flight to monitor the seating map and manage your booking. The Qantas app was especially easy to use—we could track our seats and move them around in hopes of securing a full row. 
• Snacks: After countless long-haul flights, I now swear by packing instant ramen noodles. Whether you’re flying Economy or Business Class, airplane food is notoriously bland—and a spicy cup of ramen instantly upgrades the experience. Just ask your flight attendants for hot water and a fork, and you’re set.
• Hydrate: Bring a reusable water bottle and keep refilling it throughout the flight. Australia has plenty of water refill stations at airports and around cities, so you’ll get great use out of it beyond the plane too. Staying hydrated makes a huge difference on long flights and helps fight jet lag.

Australian Visa Process 

All non-citizens require a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Download the Australian ETA app to your Apple or Android device. Complete the application and pay the $20 AUD fee for your visa. 

The visa approval process typically takes around 5-10 minutes to be approved. 

Arrival: Sydney Airport 

We landed at the Sydney Airport (SYD) at 7:30 a.m. If you’re flying from North America, you’re looking at a 15-18 hour flight time. Because you cross the International Date Line, you’ll lose two days traveling. 

We took the metro from the Sydney Airport to our hotel. It was easy to use contactless payment in the metro to tap in and tap out. It took around 45 minutes to get to Bondi Beach and was easy to navigate. If you prefer to take a rideshare Uber and Didi are available.

We checked into Lyf Bondi Junction Sydney near Bondi Beach. We split our Sydney trip into two parts. Two days near Bondi Beach at the beginning and 5 days at the end of the trip in Sydney before we flew home. I recommend splitting up your time in Sydney if you’re flying in and out of Sydney and visiting more of Australia in between. 

Bondi Beach was the perfect area to start our Sydney trip. It’s a relaxed, chill vibe, and it was exactly what we needed to shake off the jet lag and ease into vacation mode.

Where to Stay in Sydney 

We decided to stay 2 nights in Bondi Beach (at Iyf Bondi Junction) 4 nights in The Rocks (at Shangri-la Sydney – highly recommend), and one night at the Targona Zoo’s luxury hotel (Wildlife Retreat). This was the perfect combination of relaxed beach vibes to recover from jetlag, city life, iconic landmarks, and Australian wildlife. 

Shangri-La Sydney 

This hotel has the best views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House out of any hotel in the entire city. The location truly couldn’t be better, and the service we received throughout our stay was absolutely exceptional.

We were spoiled with the nighty turn down service with bottled water and chocolates. 

The Shangri-La Sydney is located in The Rocks / Circular Quay neighborhood — one of Sydney’s most charming and historic areas. The Rocks is known for its cobblestone streets, heritage buildings, and sweeping harbour views, all just a short 5–10 minute walk from Circular Quay. Circular Quay (pronounced “key”) is Sydney’s main transport hub, making it incredibly easy to access ferries, trains, and buses to explore the rest of the city.

Thanks to our Chase Reserve Credit Card, we were upgraded to a room with uninterrupted views of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge — easily one of the best hotel views we’ve ever had. Our Chase card also came with complimentary breakfast and a $100 hotel credit, which we happily used toward afternoon tea on the 36th floor overlooking the harbour.

If you travel often, you need to have the Chase Reserve Credit Card. The benefits (especially all the hotel perks!) are unreal! 

Lyf Bondi Junction Sydney

For convenient access to both Bondi Beach and Sydney’s CBD, I loved staying at Lyf Bondi Junction Sydney.

 Bondi Junction is a couple of miles inland, up the hill from Bondi Beach, so you won’t be within walking distance of the sand — but you’ll be right in the heart of the area’s main commercial and transport hub, with frequent buses to Bondi Beach and direct trains into the city.

Lyf Bondi Junction Sydney is a modern, hotel with easy connections to both Bondi and central Sydney. The hotel has a trendy, minimalist aesthetic with lots of natural light and neutral interiors. Rooms are functional yet comfortable, with plenty of space for two people and everything you need for a relaxed stay.

Breakfast was complimentary and very filling, with a good selection of hot and cold buffet options. The only downside is that coffee isn’t included and comes at an additional cost, though hot tea and juice are provided. Overall, if you want to explore a little bit of Bondi Beach and Sydney CBD it’s a great home base for easy access to both. 

Taronga Zoo Luxury Wildlife Retreat

If you’re planning to visit Taronga Zoo, I can’t recommend staying at the Taronga Zoo Wildlife Retreat enough. This luxury eco-retreat is located right inside the zoo and offers one of the most unique hotel experiences in Sydney.

To avoid too much hotel hopping, I suggest booking the Wildlife Retreat for the final night of your trip and allocating at least one full day to explore Taronga Zoo. Your stay includes complimentary zoo admission on both your check-in and check-out days, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace. The on-site restaurant, Me-Gal, is open for lunch and dinner and serves genuinely delicious food with beautiful harbour views.

The property itself is stunning. I loved the open-air lobby overlooking the zoo and Sydney Harbour, and we splurged on an Animal View Room (highly recommend). We had koalas right outside our balcony and could watch them throughout the day — easily one of the highlights of our entire trip.

For the best value, consider staying Monday through Wednesday, when rates at the Wildlife Retreat are often significantly lower than weekends.

Day 1: Brunch and Bondi to Coogee Walk 

Chances are you’ve arrived from Sydney after a long flight! Staying in Bondi Beach for one or two days is the best way to ease into your one week in Sydney. The sunshine and saltwater will recharge you and ease you into vacation mode. 

Morning: Brunch at Speedos 

Speedos is a Bondi Beach institution. Every dish here is a work of brunch art. Not only is the food visually stunning, it tastes incredible. Oh, and the cherry on top? You have views of Bondi Beach while biting into your decadent caramelized banana pancakes. 

Speedos doesn’t take reservations. Seating is limited, but if there is a queue, you can join the waitlist at the restaurant. Speedos is open every day from 6AM-3PM. 

What to Order at Speedos: For something sweet, you will love the caramelized banana pancakes. If savory is more your style, the Bondi Rescue or Big Breaky is delicious. Sip on a chai latte or a fresh-squeezed juice. We also couldn’t resist the fresh sorbet inside of a frozen lemon.

Afternoon: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk 

This 6km (3.7-mile) coastal walk is stunning! It was the perfect way to shake off the jet lag after brunch and get some vitamin D. 

On the walk, you’ll pass through beautiful golden sand beaches, ocean pools, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque beaches. 

Start the walk by the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club. 

On your walk, you’ll pass through five different beaches on the walk. If you begin at Bondi Beach, you’ll pass through  Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach and end at Coogee Beach. 

Treat yourself to a fresh smoothie from Melonhead once you make it to Coogee. I had the passionfruit smoothie and it was so good! 

After your walk you can catch the bus back to Bondi Beach from Coogee. Bus routes between the two run frequently, and you can use contactless pay onboard.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk FAQ 

How difficult is the walk? 

The walk is paved and very suitable for most ages and fitness levels. There are several areas with stairs. I would not recommend this walk if you have a stroller, or wheelchair. 

Are there toilets? 

Yes, there are several free public toilets along the way. 

What should I bring on the walk? 

Sun protection and a reusable water bottle! A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. Water refill stations are available along the trail. Don’t be like me and forget to put on sunscreen our first day in Australia! 

Dinner: North Bondi Fish

After a long day in the sun sit down for seafood and cocktails at North Bondi Fish. 

North Bondi Fish has beautiful views of Bondi Beach. If you want to side inside, your views won’t be compromised and you’ll get to enjoy the cool air conditioning (can you tell we visited during summer). 

A small detail I loved in Australia is how all tap water was complimentary at restaurants and cafes. They take their hydration seriously and it was so comforting to know we could always have water and keep hydrated. 

What to Order at North Bondi Fish: We started with the toasted sesame prawn toast – this is the one dish you have to order. It was so delicious. We also ordered the lobster burger and fish chips. 

Day 2: Beach Time and Bondi Icebergs Pool  

Morning: Brunch at Cafe Bondi 

Start your morning with cappuccino and an açai bowl at this colorful little Bondi cafe. 

Australia knows how to make great coffee. In fact, I learned the flat white was invented in Sydney in the 1980’s! 

This açai bowl at Cafe Bondi was so good! There’s something about an açai bowl that tastes even better near the ocean. 

What to Order at Cafe Bondi:  Açai Bowl (add peanut butter!) 

If you’re staying at the Iyf Junction hotel in Bondi Beach your stay will include a full breakfast buffet. However, save this café if you need a midday caffeine boost, or a light lunch.

Afternoon: Bondi Beach, Surf Lessons, or Bondi Iceberg Pool

Bondi Beach

Spend the afternoon at Bondi Beach. Bondi is one of the most famous beaches in the world! It’s lined with surfers, dogs, and very tan people – it feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard of Australia. 

The word “Bondi” comes from an Aboriginal word meaning water breaking over rocks. Very fitting when you look around at the landscape of this beautiful beach. 

If you want to swim, stay between the red and yellow flags, which mark the safest area to swim. It’s where the current is the weakest. Over 90% of rescues in Australia involve people who were not swimming between the flags. So if you remember one Bondi rule, it’s this one.

Chairs and umbrellas are also available to rent by the hour! 

Surf Lessons 

If you’ve ever wanted to try surfing, Bondi Beach is the best place to give it a try! The instructors here are the best of the best, and the conditions are ideal for surfing.

You can book surf lessons on Bondi Beach here! 

Bondi Icebergs 

Bondi Beach is home to one of Sydney’s most iconic ocean pools – Bondi Icebergs. 

This pool sits right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It feels like an infinity pool designed by the ocean. It’s common for a huge wave to collide into the pool and spill over onto swimmers. 

It is a lap pool, and not the type of place you want to float with a cocktail in hand. Day passes and towel rentals are available for a reasonable price. You’ll also have access to changing room and lockers to store your belongings.  All the details on day pass rates for Bondi Icebergs here. 

Keep in mind Bondi Icebergs is closed on Thursdays for cleaning. 

Dinner: The Bergs Bistro

Soak in the bright blue pool and uninterrupted costal views with dinner at the Bergs Bistro overlooking the Bondi Iceberg Pool. 

The views and the people watching at the Bergs Bistro do not disappoint!  We were lucky enough to score a table on their balcony and spent the majority of our meal watching the waves crash against the pool. 

What to Order at Bergs Bistro: During summer, they had a great selection of spritz cocktails to pick from. We also ordered fish tacos, calamari, and a lobster roll. The food was overall very good, but you really come to enjoy the views and atmosphere. 

Day 3: Bridge Climb and Sunset Cruise 

For the next four days in Sydney, we stayed at The Shangri-La Sydney, located in The Rocks.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge was one a highlight of our trip and an absolute must-do during your one week in Sydney.

Out of everything we did on our trip, bridge climbing was the one activity that surprised me the most (in the best way). Not only were the views incredible, but we also learned so much about the history of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney from our guide Tim during our climb.

The fear of heights can definitely put some people off — but don’t let it. The guides are extremely diligent when it comes to safety, from securing your harness to walking you through all the procedures and constantly checking in to make sure you feel confident and supported.

You’re not allowed to bring anything onto the bridge unless it’s fully secured — that includes phones, cameras, and even GoPros (they take this very seriously). Sunglasses are allowed, but they’ll be fitted with a safety strap. 

At the end of the climb, you have the option to add on a photo and video package for a very reasonable price. The guides stop at several scenic photo spots along the bridge and will take as many pictures as you’d like using their professional camera. 

If you’re planning one week in Sydney, book the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb — it gives you a perspective of the city you simply can’t get anywhere else.

CHOOSING YOUR CLIMB

There are a few different guided climbs you can choose from, but the most popular (and the one I did) is the Summit Climb. This takes you all the way to the top of the upper arch and back down, with the entire experience lasting about 3.5 hours.

 

Lunch: Australian Heritage Hotel 

Grab pizzas and beers post bridge climb at one of Sydney’s oldest pubs the Australian Heritage Hotel. 

This is your chance to try kangaroo – on a pizza! On top of their 130 Australian craft beers, you can try a kangaroo, emu, and crocodile pizza here! 

What to Order at the Australian Heritage Hotel: The kangaroo, emu, and crocodile pizza flavors were delicious! The kangaroo was my favorite, and the crocodile was a close second. 

Evening: Sunset Harbour Cruise

The best way to experience Sydney Harbour is by boat. There’s truly nothing like the moment you sail under the Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time — it’s absolutely magnificent and one of those travel moments you’ll never forget.

Seeing the Opera House from the water is equally breathtaking. Sydney has one of the most iconic and recognizable skylines in the world, and it’s only when you’re out on the harbour that you really appreciate just how stunning it is.

Yes, you could take a regular ferry and get similar views… but if you want to make it memorable, book a twilight cruise instead — ideally on a sleek, multi-level catamaran.

I recommend the Twilight Cruise of Sydney Harbour. At 90 minutes, it’s the perfect length: long enough to soak in the views without feeling like a commitment. Our boat had both indoor and outdoor decks, and since it’s capped at just 50 guests, it never felt crowded or touristy.

All guests receive a complimentary drink on arrival, and there are charcuterie platters set out around the boat to snack on as you watch the sun set over the city — truly a pinch-me moment.

Day 4: Blue Mountains Day Trip

Blue Mountains Tour

By day four of your one week in Sydney, you’ve seen the beaches and enjoyed the harbour views — now it’s time to experience a completely different side of Australia. A day trip to the Blue Mountains introduces you to the lush, moody landscapes of the Australian wilderness, and it’s one of the most rewarding day trips you can take from Sydney.

Why Visit the Blue Mountains?

The Blue Mountains are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Area, recognized for their incredible biodiversity and unique ecosystems. It’s one of the most significant protected landscapes in Australia — and shockingly close to the city.

Here you’ll find dramatic sandstone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and vast eucalyptus forests that give the region its signature blue haze. 

I loved how this Blue Mountains tour structured the entire day. Everything was planned so efficiently that not a moment was wasted, which made it easy to relax and fully enjoy the experience.

Our guide, Steve, was fantastic. He shared so much insight into the history of the Blue Mountains and Australia as a whole, and you could genuinely feel how much he loved showing visitors his beautiful country.

What to See in the Blue Mountains

The most iconic sight is the Three Sisters. These stunning sandstone formations were shaped by erosion over millions of years, with wind, rain, and time carving the cliffs into three pillars. 

The Three Sisters also hold deep cultural significance. According to Gundungurra Aboriginal legend, they represent three sisters who were turned to stone to protect them during a tribal conflict. A shaman was meant to reverse the spell, but he was killed, leaving the sisters frozen in time forever.

So they’re not just impressive rock formations — they’re a sacred site with powerful spiritual meaning.

What’s Included in this Blue Mountains Tour?

In addition to transportation and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour includes experiences I never would have thought to book on my own — and each one was truly memorable.

• Scenic Skyway
  The largest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, offering stunning views of the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls.
• Scenic Cableway
  Glide past towering sandstone cliffs and iconic rock formations, with excellent close-up views of the Three Sisters.
• Scenic Walkway
  A peaceful walk through the rainforest beneath the canopy of trees. This is where having a guide was incredibly valuable — we learned so much about the plants, wildlife, and ecosystem around us. We even spotted a lyrebird!
  (If you’re not familiar, lyrebirds are famous Australian birds that can mimic almost any sound — from other birds to crying babies to chainsaws.)
• Scenic Railway
  This is the steepest passenger railway in the world, and without question the highlight of the day. It’s thrilling, slightly terrifying, and so much fun. 
  Tip: Try to snag the very front seat of the scenic railway and recline it all the way back for the most thrilling ride!  

Lunch & Wildlife Encounter

You’ll also stop for lunch at a local restaurant, which is included in the cost of the tour. I ordered the fish and chips (again!), which I’m convinced you can never go wrong with in Australia.

Your tour wraps up with a visit to either Sydney Zoo or Featherdale Wildlife Park, where you can see native Australian animals up close. Admission either the zoo, or wildlife park is included in the tour.

After your wildlife encounter, your driver drops you at a nearby harbor with a ferry ticket back to Circular Quay, making for a scenic and relaxing end to an unforgettable day.

Book this all-inclusive Blue Mountains tour! 

Dinner at the Spice Room

You’re back in Sydney after a long day sightseeing in The Blue Mountains! Your ferry will drop you off at Circular Quay Harbour. Around the corner from the harbour is The Spice Room. 

If you’re in the mood for Indian food, you’ll love this spot! As soon as you step inside, your taste buds are hit with a wave of hunger-inducing scents. 

What to Order at the Spice Room: We shared the tandoori mixed grill, the dhaba style chicken curry, and garlic naan. Order an extra side of rice with the curry if you’re sharing.

Day 5: Sunrise Kayak, Opera House Tour, Royal Botanic Gardens, Afternoon Tea on Level 36

Sunrise Kayak in the Sydney Harbour

We’re not done with Opera House and Harbour Bridge views yet! Wake up early ( I mean, early) and watch the sun rise over the Opera House in the water on a kayak on the Sydney Harbour! 

There are a few different sunrise kayak tours, but the best tour company is Sydney by Kayak. 

Coffee (flat white, cappuccino, lattes etc.), tea, or hot chocolate is included in splash-proof cups that you can enjoy on the water. The Sydney by Kayak team takes your coffee orders in advance and customizes your order to your preference. 

Photos are also included as part of your tour. If you’re brave, you can bring your phone on the water or the guides are available to take photos of you, and your group. After the tour, they’ll send a Google link for you to download the photos you want from your group. 

 It was so beautiful to watch the sun rise over the opera house and kayak under the Harbour Bridge. It’s a special time of day where the water is still and the city hasn’t woken up yet. A unique moment where you can really sit back and appreciate the beauty of this city.

Breakfast: A.P. Palace 

If you haven’t had a meat pie in Australia yet, this is one of the best places to try one. Every flakey pastry you try at A.P. Palace will melt in your mouth. They’re known for their brisket meat pie – ask for their sweet chili sauce to really amp up the flavor. 

For something sweet, order a dark chocolate and toasted buckwheat croissant. It’s their take on pain au chocolate – but so much better. They roast and mill buckwheat in-house, then blend it into the croissant dough for extra depth and crunch.⁠

Afternoon: Opera House Tour

The Sydney Opera House is the city’s most iconic landmark, and not seeing the inside would be a mistake. If you don’t have time to catch a show, book the one-hour behind-the-scenes guided tour.

You’ll step inside two of the stunning theaters and learn how this architectural masterpiece was brought to life. I couldn’t believe it when our guide shared that the Opera House used more steel to build than the entire Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The Opera House was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, whose sail-like sketch won an international competition in 1957. He left the project before it was completed due to political disputes — and the tour reveals all the fascinating drama behind his departure.

Afternoon: Royal Botanic Gardens 

Located right next to the Opera House is the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden. It’s one of the most peaceful and scenic spots in Sydney — and the perfect break from the city without ever leaving it. 

The gardens have lush walking paths, harbor-front views, and some of the best photo spots in the city, including my favorite Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. 

If you have a short amount of time at the Botanic Gardens, you need to prioritize visiting Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. It’s one of the best panoramic perspectives in the city — with the Sydney Opera House on one side, the Harbour Bridge on the other, and sparkling water stretching between them. 

The Royal Botanic Gardens is an easy, free stop that lets you experience Sydney’s natural beauty in the middle of your itinerary.

Afternoon: High Tea on Level 36 

Sip and savor at the “highest” high tea — Altitude Restaurant on Level 36 of the Shangri-La Hotel. Watch the harbour sparkle below as you enjoy sweeping panoramic views that always impress. And as you can probably tell, I’ve found just about every way for you to take in Sydney’s skyline during your one week in Sydney.

The afternoon tea menu changes seasonally and features a mix of creative sweet and savory bites, alongside classics like smoked salmon finger sandwiches and warm scones with house-made jam and clotted cream. 

We upgraded to the free-flowing sparkling wine (highly recommend), and you can also sample multiple tea blends throughout the experience.

Reserve your High Tea on Level 36.

Dinner: Bar Luca 

When I heard about the “Blame Canada” burger at Bar Luca with with a beef patty, American cheese, maple glazed streaky bacon, maple aioli and poutine – I had to try it for myself. Turns out it was also voted as the best burger in Sydney and I can confirm it was amazing! The perfect balance of sweet and savory and the maple aioli was unreal! 

Bar Luca is known for making the most creative craft burgers in Sydney. They also have burger specials that rotate weekly, and a line-up of beloved staples (like the “Blame Canada”) that are always on the menu!  

Evening: Sunset Picnic 

Celebrating something special during your one week in Sydney? I loved booking a luxury sunset picnic with Graze & Gaze. They create beautifully styled, curated picnics set up at scenic viewpoints all around the city — it’s such a unique way to experience Sydney.

The best part? All the setup and cleanup is handled for you — you simply arrive, sit back, and enjoy the views.

Day 6: Taronga Zoo, Wildlife Retreat at the Taronga Zoo 

Morning: Head to the Taronga Zoo

Check out of your hotel and take a taxi, or the harbour ferry to Taronga Zoo! 

Why Visit the Taronga Zoo

The Taronga Zoo is consistently ranked top on the list of Best Zoos in the World! It’s directly across from Sydney Harbour with over 69 acres of land. 

They have over 5,000 different animals and 350 different species! The zoo is absolutely beautiful – and you can even see the Sydney city skyline, Opera House and Harbour Bridge overlooking the giraffes!

Taronga Zoo Tips 

• The Taronga Zoo is very hilly, wear comfortable walking shoes. 
• Download the Taronga Zoo app for quick access to view show times, keeper talks, and to prebook the giraffe encounter 
• For a slightly elevated lunch eat at the Saltwater Bistro – sip on a glass of wine and enjoy the harbour views

What to See at the Taronga Zoo

Keeper Talks 

There are over 20+ keeper talks daily that are free to enjoy! We went to the giraffe and capybara keeper talks and they were so interesting. In our experience, the keeper started a few minutes early so plan on arriving in advance. 

Live Shows

The live shows at the Taronga Zoo were so well done! They get full quickly, so I recommend at least arriving 15 minutes early. 

Seals for the Wild Show 

The most popular show at the Taronga Zoo! They have Australian sea lions, Californian sea lions and long-nosed fur seals — they swim, dive, climb and catch fish! What I love about this show was it focused on the seals natural abilities and intelligent behaviours, not forced tricks, and it’s designed to inspire conservation awareness

The presentations run daily with shows at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. If you sit in the first few rows you’re in the splash zone of the seals! 

Free Flight Bird Show

A daily presentation of beautiful birds flying through the air like the Andean Condor, cockatoos, and other exotic Australian birds.

You learn tons of fun facts from the keepers about each species and how they live in the wild. There’s ton of great photo opportunities here and the amphitheater has a view of the Sydney Harbour in the background. 

The Free Flight Bird Show is everyday at 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM and are free with your zoo admission. 

Animal Encounters 

Select animal encounters are available everyday for you to interact with select animals in close-up that are keeper-lead. 

Some of the animal encounters you can book at the Taronga Zoo are koalas, capybaras, giraffes, dingos, reptiles, penguins, and meerkats. 

Important tip for booking encounters! Most of these encounters can only be booked in-person at the Retail Shop at Top Plaza when the zoo opens at 9:00 a.m. Only the giraffe encounter can be booked in advance on the Taronga Zoo app up to three prior to your visit. 

The capybara and giraffe encounter are known for selling out the fastest. If you want to meet a capybara plan to be in line no later than 8:45 a.m. that day.

We booked the giraffe encounter and enjoyed our experience feeding the giraffes in our private small group. They gift you plenty of lettuce to feed the giraffes and they’ll take photos and videos of you on your personal phone. 

Stay: Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo

Spend your final night in Sydney at the stunning Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo — an immersive, luxury eco-lodge located right inside the zoo and perfect for wildlife lovers and travelers seeking a truly unique experience.

After spending one week in Sydney, we were definitely ready to slow down, and this was the perfect place to relax, unplug, and end the trip on a high note.

Tips for Staying at the Wildlife Retreat

• Arrive early to store your bags and start using your zoo access right away.
• Book an Animal View Room if you can — we had koalas right outside our window and could watch them from our couch.
• Reserve dinner at Me-Gal when booking your stay, as prime time slots fill up quickly.

What Your Stay at the Wildlife Retreat Includes: 

Complimentary Zoo Access

Your stay includes zoo admission on both your check-in and check-out days, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Morning Keeper Walk

Take part in a guided early-morning walk with a keeper, included with your stay. This happens before the zoo fully opens and is one of the best ways to see animals at their most active. We learned so much about the birds in the sanctuary, and even spotted the Tasmanian devil wide awake during our visit.

Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

All stays also include a guided sanctuary tour within the hotel grounds. Tours typically run between 3:00–5:00 PM and are booked at check-in. Watching the echidnas up close was one of our favorite moments.

Me-Gal Restaurant

Your stay includes a buffet breakfast at Me-Gal Restaurant, which overlooks Sydney Harbour and offers a beautiful setting to start the day.

Night Walk (Additional Cost)

For a small extra fee (around $25 AUD per person), you can join a night walk through the zoo with a keeper. This was such a highlight — we saw far more animals active at night than during the day, including lions relaxing in their habitat and dingos playing.

Dinner & Zoo Night Walk

Spend your evening with dinner at Me-Gal Restaurant, where the food is genuinely excellent. The wagyu steak was a standout, and the chimichurri was incredible. We were celebrating my birthday during this stay, and the staff surprised me with a candle in our dessert — such a thoughtful touch.

After dinner, book the night walk for one final unforgettable experience. Wandering the zoo after dark with a guide feels incredibly special, and you never know which animals will be awake and active.

It’s the perfect way to end a one-week Sydney itinerary — peaceful, memorable, and completely different from a typical city hotel.

Day 7: Taronga Zoo & Departure Day

It’s your final day in Sydney, but if your flight is later in the day, you can still enjoy one last wildlife experience at Taronga Zoo before heading home.

Breakfast: Me-Gal Restaurant 

Start with the included buffet breakfast at Me-Gal Restaurant, featuring hot and cold options, plus made-to-order tea and barista-style lattes — all with beautiful harbour views.

Morning:  Zoo Tour

Join a guided walk with a keeper through the zoo before it opens to the public. The team is incredibly knowledgeable, and it’s a great chance to ask questions and see the animals while they’re most active. It’s a peaceful, behind-the-scenes way to end your one week in Sydney trip on a high note.

If time allows, take one final stroll through the zoo or snap a few last harbour photos before making your way to the airport. The perfect send-off to an amazing one week in Sydney.

One Week in Sydney: A Map

I created a Sydney map with all my favorite hotels, restaurants, and activities pinned. And yes, I personally went to and enjoyed every single place on it! 

Final Thoughts:  One Week in Sydney 

I hope this itinerary helps you plan the perfect one week in Sydney. Between iconic adventures like bridge climbing, scenic day trips to the Blue Mountains, and golden-hour harbour cruises, this city offers something for every type of traveler. If you have any favorite Sydney experiences, drop them in the comments so we can inspire future trips together.

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