The unofficial capital of Aussie {did you know its not?!}, Sydney is an unreal city with A LOT to offer, we love Sydney for its iconic landmarks {hello Opera House}, its city vibes and beachy escapes. The perfect place to start or end your east coast adventure you’ll have plenty to do in Sydney whether its checking out the galleries and museums, hitting up the foodie spots, enjoying the nightlife of the city or just cruising around and city sites. You can easily get to the legendary Bondi Beach, Manly Beach or Coogee from the Sydney which are awesome to visit for the day!
Where is it:
New South Wales
What can you do there:
- Learn to surf at Bondi Beach
- See the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Explore the city on a free walking tour
- Check out Darling Harbour
- Hit up all the beaches around the city – manly, shelly, watsons bay
- Blue mountains day trip
- Go on an epic jet boat tour at the opera house
Free things to do here:
- Free walking tour
- Chill out at one of many amazing beaches
- Go to the museums & art galleries
- Wander around the city
- Get Snapping – this city is the home of insta worthy spots
Hostel recommendations:
- Sydney Harbour YHA – this is the rooftop of ALL rooftops, this hostel offers epic views of the opera house, circular quay and the bridge
- Sydney Central YHA – a pool, sauna, a photobooth and a cinema with free popcorn, need we say more??
RatPacker Sophie recommends: take a wander around the rocks and don’t miss the market on a saturday & sunday {gals – theres a couple here that make beautiful rings for such a good price!}
Extra tips:
Get yourself an opal card and properly explore, on Sunday all travel is capped at $1.80 so make the most of it and jump on one of the ferries, my fave is Watson’s Bay!
Best Foodie Spot:
- Darling Harbour is home to lots of epic restaurants which do really good deals. Theres an epic thai place here too
- Baby Coffee – a super cute instafamous cafe where everything is pink and beautiful {a sophie reco there not a sammy boi one haha}
- The grounds of Alexandria
Best Place for a night out:
- Darling Harbour – hit up home {you can get free entry tickets from your hostel} or pontoon
- Candy club – if you like reggaeton and latino vibes head here on a saturday night {but try not to break your shoes like sophie!}
- Kings Cross – a backpacker hub with loads of good bars, check out world bar for teapot cocktails and silent disco!
