10 exciting things to do in Sydney, and how to get the best travel deals
Fun activities you should definitely put on your list when visiting Sydney!
Welcome to the Go City travel content series, where we highlight fun activities at your favourite destinations around the world.
There's something about Sydney, where it's always bright, sunny, fun and happening. If you haven't heard, 2023 is going to be the biggest year for Vivid Sydney, an annual festival that completely transforms the city with light projections over 23 days and nights. A range of performances and talks will also be happening and this year, Jennifer Coolidge (*screams*) is headlining. Being the savvy deal hunter that you are, it's a good time to look at city passes if you're considering a trip to Sydney.
If you're unfamiliar with city passes – it's a way to save money if you have more than two attractions you'd like to visit in any city. Go City, a city passes platform, is often used for savings when one is visiting multiple attractions.
You can check out their example itinerary to see how much you can save as you choose from two to seven of Sydney's top attractions to visit. The company even helps to calculate savings by comparing the Go City price to the combined normal ticket values, which are updated regularly (the last update is on April 1, 2023.)
1. Light up your world at Vivid Sydney
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Every year, Sydney lights up for almost a month – not just with art installations, but also ideas, culture, performances and more. Expect art, great food and an exciting lineup of performances during Vivid Sydney across festival locations such as Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Walsh Bay, Barangaroo, King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour, Darling Quarter, Darling Square, The Goods Line, Central Station, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Carriageworks, Taronga Zoo and more. The festival ends 17 June this year, so don't miss it!
2. Majestic Cruise
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Another way to see the city would be on the waters, of course! All you need to do it to sit back, relax, and let the gentle motion of a cruise introduce you to Sydney.
3. Sydney Opera House Tour
Speaking of another way to see popular attractions, the Sydney Opera House tour will let you know the ins and outs of this landmark through an intimate 60-min tour with a guide.
4. Australian Maritime Museum
As you explore the Australian National Maritime Museum, step onto historic ships and submarines, and gt a behind-the-scenes tour of the famous vessels! Until 31 October 2023, your ticket will also include entry to Brickwrecks (Sunken Ships in LEGO® Bricks) and Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2023.
5. Sydney Harbour Jet Thrill Ride
Save yourself a seat at discounted price here
I've been on one the last time I went to Sydney, and boy – despite all of my misgivings and not exactly being an adrenaline junkie – it's one of the most unforgettable boat rides I've ever been on, not to mention exciting.
6. Urban Winery Sydney: Wine Tasting with Cheese and Charcuterie
You know what you're getting into at a winery, and the bonus is that you don't even need to travel far from the city!
7. Escape Hunt Sydney
Fancy yourself the smartest in your group? Find out for sure in this physical Escape Room experience!
8. Bondi Surf: 2-Hour Surfboard & Wetsuit Rental
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Learn how to surf in a safe and fun way at one of Australia's most-known beaches!
9. 4-Hour Bike Rental by Bonza Bike Tours
See Sydney from the ground, all four hours of it, on a bike to truly get an intimate feel of the bustling city.
10. Blue Mountains Explorer Bus: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
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What's a visit to Sydney without checking out Blue Mountains? On the hop-on hop-off tour, you can visit up to 37 stops, including Katoomba Falls, Scenic World, and Echo Point.
Types of Go City passes
Sydney passes are easy to purchase and utilise. With the Explorer Pass, you can select how many attractions you wish to visit, and you'll have 60 days to do so. There's no need to decide which ones you'll visit before purchasing, so you can keep your plans flexible, though do note that some attractions require advanced reservations, so do read the deets carefully on the Go City website!
Related: 7 fun, family-friendly things to do in Bangkok with kids
2-choice Explorer Pass: adult AU80 / child AU50
3-choice Explorer Pass: adult AU101 / child AU71
4-choice Explorer Pass: adult AU131 / child AU91
5-choice Explorer Pass: adult AU161 / child AU111
7-choice Explorer Pass: adult AU211 / child AU141
Plus, with the Go City app, you'll have all the information you need at your fingertips, such as attraction deets, further information, suggested itineraries, a handy map, and more!
How to start using the pass
First, choose the amount of attractions you'd like to visit and make your purchase. The confirmation email will be sent to you. Download the Go City app. You can then use your order confirmation number to add the pass to your phone. Not fond of technology? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email.
This content was produced in partnership with Go City.
More travel articles:
New stays in Australia to put on your list
Sweet stays in Perth to maximise your vacation
Alternative experiences to chase in Perth
Where to go for halal food in Sydney
7 fun, family-friendly things to do in Bangkok with kids
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