How to Spend the Perfect Day in Sydney: From Sunrise to Sunset
Planning the perfect day out in Sydney? With so many incredible places to explore, eat, sip and wander — it’s easy to feel spoiled for choice. Whether you're in town for a weekend getaway or looking to fall in love with your own city again, this curated itinerary takes you through a sun-soaked Sydney day. From waking up in style at Oxford House to beachside brunches, coastal walks and cocktails with a view, here’s how to soak up the very best of the Harbour City — from morning to night.
Where to Stay: Oxford House, Paddington
Wake up slowly at Oxford House, a chic boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Paddington. With its minimalist interiors, fluffy white linen, and room service worth staying in bed for (hello, pancakes and lattes), it’s the ideal base for a relaxed Sydney stay. Sip your coffee slowly, watch the morning light pour in, and ease into the day ahead.
Morning Magic & Fresh Blooms
Carriageworks Farmers Market
Once you’re ready to roll, make your way to the Carriageworks Farmers Market. Held every Saturday, this market is a local favourite for a reason — overflowing with vibrant blooms, fresh produce, artisanal goods and the best almond croissants in the city. Stroll through in your flowiest dress, iced coffee in hand, and let the slow-living energy set the tone.
Brunch by the Sea
Blackwood Bondi – Coastal Cool & Colourful Plates
Next stop: Bondi. Head to Blackwood for a brunch that’s as beautiful as the setting. Their avo toast is a standout — generously layered with beetroot, feta, mint and all the extras. Just minutes from the beach, this is the ultimate spot to fuel up before hitting the coast.
Coastal Wanders & Ocean Views
Spit to Manly Walk – Breathtaking Trail by the Water
Lace up your sneakers and get ready to move. The Spit to Manly walk is one of Sydney’s most iconic coastal tracks, winding past hidden beaches, lush bushland, and lookout points that’ll stop you in your tracks. Take it at your own pace, breathe in that salty air, and end the walk right where you need to be — in the heart of Manly.
Lunch: Wharfside Bites
Hugos Manly – Seafood & Spritzes by the Water
Freshen up and head straight to Hugo's, perched right on the water. It’s iconic for a reason. Order a dozen oysters, share the burrata, and sip on something chilled while you soak in the views. With the sound of the waves and ferries drifting by, it’s the kind of lunch that turns into an afternoon.
Evening: Pre-Dinner Drinks in the City
MuMu – Cocktail Hour with a Twist
As the golden hour rolls in, make your way into the city for pre-dinner drinks at MuMu. This colourful cocktail bar brings serious fun with its bold interiors and inventive drinks menu. Mu mu is an Asian fusion-inspired dish that will have your taste buds wanting more! Choose something zesty, spicy or sweet and let the city buzz lift your energy for the night ahead.
Dinner + Sunset: Iconic Views
Opera Bar – Dine with Sydney’s Icons
Located right beside the Sydney Opera House and overlooking the Harbour Bridge, Opera Bar is the spot for dinner with a view. With share plates, spritzes and that postcard-perfect backdrop, it’s the quintessential Sydney experience — casual yet unforgettable. As the sky fades to pink and the skyline lights up, you’ll feel the city magic kick in.
Night: Cinema Under the Stars
Westpac OpenAir Cinema – Movie Moments on the Harbour
End your Sydney day in the dreamiest way possible — at the Westpac OpenAir Cinema. Floating on the harbour with panoramic city views, this alfresco movie experience is pure magic. Watch as the screen rises from the water and the film begins, with the Sydney Opera House glowing in the distance. It’s a moment you’ll want to bottle.
And there you have it...
From flower markets to harbour movies, Sydney serves up something special at every turn. Whether you're a local planning the ultimate day out or a visitor soaking up the sunshine, this itinerary is your ticket to experiencing the city at its most beautiful.
