Getting to, from and around Sydney.
Airport Transfers
From the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, there are multiple options to reach the city centre:
- Airport Link Train (recommended): The Airport Link train service provides a fast and convenient way to reach the city centre. Trains run approximately every 10 minutes and the journey to the city takes around 15 minutes. Tap on the train with a Visa or Mastercard, Apple Pay, or by purchasing an Opal Card.
- Bus: Public buses also service the airport and various points in the city. Check the Sydney Buses website for schedules and routes. Tap on buses with your debit card, credit card, Apple Pay, or by purchasing an Opal Card.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services (like Uber) are readily available at the airport. The journey to the city centre typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Public Transport
Sydney has an extensive public transportation network, which includes trains, buses, ferries, and light rail.
Ride public transport in Sydney by tapping on and off with a valid Visa or Mastercard, ApplePay, or an Opal Card. The Opal card is a smartcard ticket that you use to pay for travel on public transport in Sydney. You can purchase and top-up these cards at a variety of stores. You can also use a Visa or Mastercard.
Plan your trip using Apple Maps, Google Maps, or online using the Transport NSW Journey Planner.
The Icons.
-
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. Not only is it the largest steel arch bridge on the planet, but it also spans one of the globe’s finest natural harbours. Affectionately named the Coathanger by locals, it’s an intrinsic part of the city; you can walk or cycle across it and even climb to its peak for incredible views.
THINGS TO DO
Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Museum + Lookout
Sydney Harbour Bridge Pedestrian Walk
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to the Chinatown Light Rail Station (about 10 minutes).
- Board the L2 or L3 light rail towards Circular Quay. Light rail services run every 4 minutes.
- After 4 stops (7 min), exit the light rail at Bridge Street.
- Walk about 9 minutes to the Bridge Stairs, located at 100 Cumberland Street, The Rocks.
-
Bondi Beach
From sunrise to sunset, Bondi Beach entices with its laid-back lifestyle, stunning coastal surrounds and buzzing eateries.
THINGS TO DO
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to Central Station (about 9 minutes).
- Board the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line Train towards Bondi Junction from Platform 24. Services run every 10 minutes.
- After 5 stops (13 min), exit the train at Bondi Junction. Exit by following the signs for Grafton Street.
- Walk to Bondi Junction Station, Stand A (about 3 minutes).
- Board the 333 bus towards North Bondi. Bus runs every 6 minutes.
- After 8 stops (12 minutes), exit the bus at Bondi Beach, Campbell Parade, Stand C.
-
Sydney Opera House
This is a must-visit. The iconic Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the world's most famous and distinctive buildings.
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to the Chinatown Light Rail Station (about 10 minutes).
- Board the L2 or L3 light rail towards Circular Quay. Light rail services run every 4 minutes.
- After 5 stops (11 min), exit the light rail at Circular Quay.
- Walk about 8 minutes to Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000.
-
Luna Park
With spectacular views of the harbour, Sydney's much-loved Luna Park is a superbly restored 1930s amusement park where everyone goes - just for fun.
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to the Chinatown Light Rail Station (about 10 minutes).
- Board the L2 or L3 light rail towards Circular Quay. Light rail services run every 4 minutes.
- After 5 stops (11 min), exit the light rail at Circular Quay.
- Walk about 2 minutes to Ferry Wharf 5.
- Board the F4 Pyrmont Bay Ferry towards Pyrmont Bay. This service departs every 30 minutes.
- At the next stop (about 4 minutes), exit the ferry at Milsons Point.
- Walk about 4 minutes to Luna Park, at 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point NSW 2061.
-
Taronga Zoo
One of Sydney's most famous attractions, the award-winning Taronga Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, including Australian native wildlife, as well as rare and endangered exotic animals.
Taronga Zoo Sydney’s beautiful outdoor harbourside location provides you with the chance to connect with animals and nature and enjoy time safely with family and friends.
Overlooking the magnificent Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes from the city by ferry.
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to the Chinatown Light Rail Station (about 10 minutes).
- Board the L2 or L3 light rail towards Circular Quay. Light rail services run every 4 minutes.
- After 5 stops (11 min), exit the light rail at Circular Quay.
- Walk about 2 minutes to Ferry Wharf 4.
- Board the F2 Taronga Zoo Ferry. This service departs every 30 minutes.
- After 1 stop (about 12 minutes), exit the ferry at Taronga Zoo.
-
Sydney Tower Eye
The Sydney Tower Eye has been an integral part of the famous Sydney skyline for the past 30 years.
Located 250 metres above the Sydney streets, you can enjoy unrivalled 360-degree views of the city and beyond. Spot iconic landmarks and hidden gems of this beautiful harbour city, plus on a clear day, you can even see the Blue Mountains, located 80km away!
Get ready for Sydney's highest outdoor adventure with Skywalk. If you think Sydney is a beautiful city, wait until you see it from above! Step out into the open air, hundreds of metres above the city streets, for the view of a lifetime.
GETTING THERE FROM UTS:
- Start at UTS.
- Walk to the Chinatown Light Rail Station (about 10 minutes).
- Board the L2 or L3 light rail towards Circular Quay. Light rail services run every 4 minutes.
- After 2 stops (4 min), exit the light rail at QVB.
- Walk about 4 minutes to the Sydney Tower Eye, located at 108 Market Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
Cafes
-
Toby's Estate Chippendale
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Toby's Estate is a renowned coffee roaster with several cafes in Sydney. The Chippendale location is just a short walk from UTS and is known for its excellent coffee and tasty food menu. The cafe has a modern, relaxed vibe, making it a great spot for studying or catching up with friends.
-
Something for Jess
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Something for Jess is a charming cafe located in Chippendale, just a stone's throw from UTS. They serve delicious coffee and a menu of fresh, locally sourced food. The cafe has a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features rotating art exhibits from local artists.
-
Brickfields
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Brickfields is a popular bakery and cafe located in Chippendale. They serve excellent coffee and a variety of baked goods, all made in-house. The sourdough bread and pastries are particularly good. It's a great spot for a quick coffee break or a leisurely brunch.
-
Mecca Coffee
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Mecca Coffee is a local favorite, known for its exceptional quality and commitment to sustainability. They roast their own beans and offer a variety of blends and single-origin coffees. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual catch-up.
-
Campos Coffee
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Campos Coffee is a Sydney institution, with several locations throughout the city. They're dedicated to serving the best coffee possible, and their baristas are highly skilled. The Newtown location is particularly popular, with a cozy interior and a great selection of pastries.
-
Artificer Specialty Coffee Bar & Roastery
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Artificer is a minimalist coffee bar that focuses solely on coffee. They roast their own beans and offer a rotating selection of single-origin coffees. It's a must-visit for any serious coffee lover.
-
Reuben Hills
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Reuben Hills is a coffee roastery and cafe that serves some of the best coffee in Sydney. They source their beans directly from the farmers and roast them in-house. The cafe menu is inspired by the countries they source their beans from, offering a unique dining experience.
-
Paramount Coffee Project
Category: Coffee
Price Range: $
Explanation: Paramount Coffee Project is a collaborative cafe that aims to provide a unique coffee experience. They work with different roasters and offer a variety of brewing methods. The space is bright and airy, with a modern industrial design.
-
Haven Specialty Coffee
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: Haven Specialty Coffee is a cafe known for its specialty coffee and brunch menu. The cafe offers a range of coffee brewing methods and a menu of fresh, flavorful dishes.
-
Edition Roasters
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: Edition Roasters is a cafe and roastery known for its high-quality coffee and Japanese-inspired menu. The cafe offers a range of coffee beans, brewing equipment, and a menu of fresh, flavorful dishes.
-
The Q on Harris
Location: Ultimo
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: The Q on Harris is a cozy cafe serving a variety of dishes and coffee. It's a great spot for a casual meal or coffee break.
-
Concrete Jungle
Location: Chippendale
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: Concrete Jungle serves a variety of healthy and delicious dishes, along with a selection of coffee and other drinks.
-
Hatch Espresso
Location: Chippendale
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: Hatch Espresso is a popular spot for coffee lovers. They offer a variety of coffee drinks and light bites.
Bars & Nightlife
-
Bar 83
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar
Explanation: Bar 83 is a sophisticated cocktail bar located on the 83rd floor of the Sydney Tower. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a great spot for a special occasion. The cocktail menu is innovative and the wine list is extensive. It's a bit on the pricier side, but the view alone is worth it.
-
Employees Only
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar, Live Music
Explanation: Employees Only is a New York-style cocktail bar located in Sydney's CBD. The bar is known for its creative cocktails and late-night dining menu. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live jazz music playing most nights. It's a great spot for a night out with friends.
-
Barangaroo House
Location: Barangaroo
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Bar & Restaurant, Sports Bar
Explanation: Barangaroo House is a multi-level venue located in the Barangaroo precinct. The House Bar on the ground floor will be showing all FIFA games on TV screens throughout the tournament. Level 1 is home to Rekodo, a Japanese inspired restaurant offering an Omakase lunch and dinner menu with vinyl music playing. No bookings are required. The rooftop bar, Smoke, offers a more upscale experience with its innovative cocktail menu and phenomenal views over Darling Harbour and Barangaroo.
-
The Wild Rover
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Whiskey Bar, Pub
Explanation: The Wild Rover is a lively Irish-inspired bar with a great selection of whiskey and craft beer. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a rustic interior and friendly staff.
-
Shady Pines Saloon
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Whiskey Bar, Pub
Explanation: Shady Pines Saloon is a Western-themed bar with a great selection of bourbon and beer. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with country music playing in the background. They also serve complimentary peanuts to snack on.
-
The Baxter Inn
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Whiskey Bar
Explanation: The Baxter Inn is a hidden gem in Sydney's CBD. This basement bar is known for its extensive whiskey selection and classic cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a nightcap. It's tucked away in an alley, but don't let that deter you - it's well worth the hunt.
-
Abercrombie
Location: Chippendale
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Nightclub, Rooftop Bar, Wine Bar
Explanation: Recently nominated as the best Sydney nightclub, Abercrombie features the Casa Rosa Rooftop, perfect for enjoying margaritas and pizza slices. It also houses Lil Sis, a wine bar and bottle shop. It's a lively venue with a great atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out.
-
Goros
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Bar & Restaurant, Karaoke Bar
Explanation: Goros is a fun, Japanese-inspired venue located in Surry Hills. The menu is full of tasty options, and the venue features booths, neon lights, and karaoke rooms for added entertainment. It's a great place to enjoy a night out with friends.
-
Double Deuce
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar
Explanation: Double Deuce is a cocktail bar located in Surry Hills. It offers a range of creative cocktails in a cozy, retro-inspired setting. It's a great spot for a nightcap or a casual drink with friends.
-
The Flinders Hotel
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Pub, Live Music
Explanation: The Flinders Hotel is a classic Sydney pub located in Darlinghurst. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and live music, it's a great spot to enjoy a night out with friends. They also serve a range of tasty pub food.
-
Ivy
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Nightclub, Dancing, Pool Bar
Explanation: Ivy is a stylish venue in the heart of Sydney's CBD. It features several bars, a restaurant, and a large outdoor pool area. The venue is known for its lively atmosphere and regular DJ sets. It's a great spot for dancing the night away.
-
MCA Late
Location: The Rocks
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Museum, Live Music
Explanation: MCA Late is a monthly event at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia. It offers after-hours access to exhibitions, live music, and creative workshops. It's a unique way to experience the museum and enjoy Sydney's cultural scene.
-
The Argyle
Location: The Rocks
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Nightclub, Live Music
Explanation: The Argyle is a popular venue located in The Rocks. It features six bars spread over two levels and offers a range of entertainment, from live music to DJ sets. The venue is housed in a heritage building, adding a unique charm to the place.
-
Club 77
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Nightclub, Dancing
Explanation: Club 77 is a late-night club located in Darlinghurst. Known for its underground music scene, it's a great spot for those looking to dance the night away. The club regularly hosts local and international DJs.
-
Dean and Nancy on 22
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar
Explanation: Dean and Nancy on 22 is a stylish cocktail bar located on the 22nd floor of the A by Adina Sydney. The bar offers a range of creative cocktails and a menu of modern Australian cuisine. With its stunning views of the city, it's a great spot for a special occasion.
-
The Library Bar
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Sit Down Bar
Explanation: The Library Bar is a cozy, book-themed bar located in the CBD. It's a great spot for a quiet drink or a casual catch-up. The bar offers a range of cocktails, wines, and beers, as well as a menu of small plates.
-
Oxford Art Factory
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Live Music Venue, Dancing
Explanation: Oxford Art Factory is a venue dedicated to art and music. They host a range of events, from live music to art exhibitions. The venue has a lively atmosphere and is a great spot for a night out.
-
Stitch Bar
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar
Explanation: Stitch Bar is a hidden gem located in the CBD. The bar is known for its creative cocktails and American-style food menu. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual drink.
Food
-
Spice Alley
Location: Chippendale
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Street Food, Asian Cuisine
Explanation: Spice Alley is a vibrant hawker-style food court located in Chippendale. It offers a variety of Asian cuisines, from Thai to Malaysian to Japanese. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a casual meal with friends.
-
Untied
Location: Barangaroo
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Australian Cuisine, Rooftop Bar
Explanation: Untied is a rooftop bar and restaurant located in the Barangaroo precinct. It offers a menu of modern Australian cuisine and a range of cocktails. The venue features a tropical decor and stunning views of the surrounding area.
-
Zushi
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Japanese Cuisine
Explanation: Zushi is a popular Japanese restaurant located in Surry Hills. It offers a menu of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and modern, making it a great spot for a casual meal.
-
Gelato Messina
Location: Multiple Locations
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Gelato Shop
Explanation: Gelato Messina is a popular gelato shop with several locations across Sydney. They offer a wide range of flavors, all made in-house with high-quality ingredients. It's a must-visit for dessert lovers.
-
Bar Totti
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Italian Cuisine, Wine Bar
Explanation: Bar Totti is an Italian restaurant and wine bar located in Sydney's CBD. It offers a menu of Italian classics and a wide selection of wines. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a romantic date.
-
Shellhouse
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$$
Type of Venue: Seafood Restaurant
Explanation: Shellhouse is a seafood restaurant located in Sydney's CBD. It offers a menu of fresh seafood dishes in a sophisticated setting. It's a great spot for a special occasion or a business lunch.
-
Double Deuce
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cocktail Bar
Explanation: Double Deuce is a cocktail bar located in Surry Hills. It offers a range of creative cocktails in a cozy, retro-inspired setting. It's a great spot for a nightcap or a casual drink with friends.
-
Pellegrinos 2000
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Italian Cuisine
Explanation: Pellegrinos 2000 is an Italian restaurant located in Sydney's CBD. It offers a menu of Italian classics in a casual, relaxed setting. It's a great spot for a casual meal or a business lunch.
-
Bar Reggio
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Italian Cuisine
Explanation: Bar Reggio is a family-run Italian restaurant known for its traditional pizzas and pastas. It's a local favorite with a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
-
Mamak
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Malaysian Cuisine
Explanation: Mamak is a popular Malaysian restaurant known for its authentic street food dishes. The roti and satay are must-try items.
-
Jimmy's Falafel
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Middle Eastern Cuisine
Explanation: Jimmy's Falafel offers a modern take on Middle Eastern street food. The menu features a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes, including falafel, shawarma, and hummus.
-
Spice I Am
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Thai Cuisine
Explanation: Spice I Am is a well-known Thai restaurant offering a wide range of dishes from different regions of Thailand. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and generous portions.
-
Malibu
Location: Surry Hills
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Australian Cuisine
Explanation: Malibu is a modern Australian restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally to take advantage of the best produce available.
-
Indian Home Diner
Location: Paddington
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Indian Cuisine
Explanation: Indian Home Diner is a casual restaurant offering a variety of Indian dishes. The menu features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional spices.
-
Gumshara
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Japanese Cuisine
Explanation: Gumshara is a ramen restaurant known for its thick, rich broth. The menu is simple, focusing on a few types of ramen, but each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.
-
Bill & Toni's
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Italian Cuisine
Explanation: Bill & Toni's is a long-standing Italian restaurant known for its classic dishes and friendly service. The menu features a range of pastas, risottos, and other Italian favorites.
-
Ho Jiak
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Malaysian Cuisine
Explanation: Ho Jiak is a Malaysian restaurant offering a variety of flavorful dishes. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and generous portions.
-
Chaco Ramen
Location: Darlinghurst
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Japanese Cuisine
Explanation: Chaco Ramen is a popular ramen restaurant known for its rich, flavorful broths and fresh noodles. The menu also features a range of other Japanese dishes.
-
Mary's CQ
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Burger Bar
Explanation: Mary's CQ is a popular burger bar known for its juicy burgers and crispy fries. The menu is simple, but each item is made with high-quality ingredients.
-
Xi'an Biang Biang
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Chinese Cuisine
Explanation: Xi'an Biang Biang is a Chinese restaurant specializing in dishes from the Shaanxi province. The restaurant is known for its hand-pulled noodles and flavorful sauces.
-
Boon Cafe
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Thai Cuisine, Cafe
Explanation: Boon Cafe is a Thai cafe and grocery store offering a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The menu features a mix of traditional Thai dishes and modern interpretations.
-
Chat Thai
Location: Multiple Locations
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Thai Cuisine
Explanation: Chat Thai is a chain of Thai restaurants known for their authentic dishes and vibrant atmosphere. The menu features a range of traditional Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.
-
Mango Coco
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Dessert Shop
Explanation: Mango Coco is a dessert shop specializing in mango-based desserts. The menu features a variety of refreshing treats, perfect for a sweet pick-me-up.
-
Black Star Pastry
Location: Newtown, Moore Park, Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Bakery
Explanation: Black Star Pastry is a bakery known for its Strawberry Watermelon Cake, which has been dubbed "the world's most Instagrammed cake". They also offer a range of other pastries and cakes.
-
Gram Cafe and Pancakes The Galeries
Location: Sydney CBD
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Cafe
Explanation: Gram Cafe and Pancakes is a Japanese cafe known for its fluffy souffle pancakes. The menu also features a range of other sweet and savory dishes.
-
Kurtosh Darling Square
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Bakery
Explanation: Kurtosh is a bakery offering a variety of pastries, cakes, and coffee. Their signature item is the Kurtosh, a Hungarian pastry also known as chimney cake.
-
KOI Dessert Bar
Location: Chippendale
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Dessert Bar
Explanation: KOI Dessert Bar is a modern dessert bar offering a range of creative and delicious desserts. The venue is run by the Poernomo brothers, who have appeared on MasterChef Australia.
-
Tella Balls Dessert Bar
Location: Dulwich Hill
Price Range: $$
Type of Venue: Dessert Bar
Explanation: Tella Balls Dessert Bar is a dessert shop known for its Nutella-based desserts. The menu features a variety of sweet treats, including their signature Tella Balls (donuts filled with Nutella).
-
Machi Machi
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Bubble Tea Shop
Explanation: Machi Machi is a bubble tea shop known for its variety of unique and flavorful drinks. The shop offers a range of milk teas, fruit teas, and their signature "Panna Cotta" series.
-
Short Stop Darling Square
Location: Haymarket
Price Range: $
Type of Venue: Donut Shop
Explanation: Short Stop is a donut shop offering a variety of freshly made donuts. The menu features a range of flavors, from classic cinnamon sugar to more unique options like Earl Grey and Rose.