Things to Do in Sydney This Weekend

Looking for things to do in Sydney this weekend you don’t need to book weeks ahead for? Gotcha.

Ideal for locals looking to rediscover Sydney or visitors wanting to explore it uniquely, these treasure trails require you to pay close attention to the clues, your surroundings, and the clock (if you want to amp up the stakes a bit). 

And the best part is, all you need is a phone, someone to do the trail with and a few hours to do it in.

Explore crafts, food stalls, and live music at this iconic weekend market.

Nestled in Sydney’s historic precinct, The Rocks Markets are an iconic weekend market packed with crafts, food stalls and live music. 

Browse unique handmade crafts, sample delicious street food, and enjoy live music as you wander through the cobblestone streets.

Finished bingeing Hernandez Brothers on Netflix? Don’t worry, there’s no shortage of crime docos out there, but you could even put your hand to solving a murder mystery of your own…

Death On The Rocks challenges you to solve a mystery right in the middle of Sydney’s streets.
Armed with cryptic clues and plenty of puzzles, you’ll explore Sydney’s’s atmospheric alleys and historic landmarks as you piece together the evidence.

Looking for things to do in Sydney this weekend that get your heart rate up?

Breathe in the fresh sea air and take in incredible  views on Sydney’s iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. 

This 6 km trail meanders along dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and hidden bays, offering plenty of photo-worthy moments. Stop for a swim if you fancy it, or grab a coffee at a beachside café as a reward at the end. 

Bonus: it’s free, and the workout is a win for your step count!

Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Sydney Opera House is one of my favourite hangouts in Sydney CBD: the RBG.

Perfect for a peaceful stroll (or pretending you’re in your own Jane Austen adaptation), the Royal Botanic Garden has stunning harbour views, beautiful flower displays, and an escape from the city buzz.

Pick a route and start exploring! Whether it’s a historic area or a vibrant cultural hub, self-guided walking tours like these let you uncover Sydney's hidden gems at your own pace. 

Explore diverse street corners, from the historic streets of the Rocks to the secrets tucked away in Chinatown, all while solving engaging puzzles and challenges.

Plus, no guide means no awkward group photos with strangers (just your mates).

Going to your local for a drink might seem like one of the most obvious things to do in Sydney this weekend, but this kind of counts as research. 

As you’ll find out when you get there, these historic watering holes are more than just great places for a pint—they’re filled with stories of rum runners, sailors, and Sydney’s early days. 

And, I don’t know about you–-but I don’t need an excuse to tuck into a schnitty.

Speaking of research, if you think you’ve seen it all, think again.

Get ready to impress your friends with your newfound insider knowledge by tracking down some parts of Sydney you thought you knew well or places the tourist guides don’t mention.

Looking for things to do in Sydney this weekend you can do while the trains are on strike? The ferries never let us down.

Swap the city grind for fresh, salty air with a ferry ride to Manly Beach. Once there, swim, surf, or simply chill while pretending you live the beach life full-time.

PSST: If you want a cafe rec, I recommend Fika. The cinnamon buns here are unreal.

Be honest Sydneysiders, have you been here recently? Probably not, but you’re missing out.

The art here really is amazing, plus the building itself is a masterpiece (seriously, look closer next time you’re in the area, it’s beautiful!). 

Best of all? Entry to the main galleries is free, so you can save your dollars for a coffee in the café afterward.

Who could resist Chinatown? From the mouth-watering aromas of sizzling dumplings to colourful street art and bustling markets, this neighbourhood is a sensory feast. 

Explore hidden laneways, sample incredible dishes, and soak up the cultural buzz. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite, discover something new, or simply wander and take in the sights.

Did you know they used six million rivets to build the Harbour Bridge? Probably not, but there’s more trivia where that came from. 

This hidden gem offers panoramic views of the harbour, Opera House, and city skyline without the hefty BridgeClimb price tag. Climb 200 steps to the top and discover fascinating exhibitions about the bridge’s history along the way.

Change up your plans and add some things to do in Sydney this weekend that put some fresh air in your lungs.

With over 75,000 native trees and shrubs, wide open spaces right on the CBD’s doorstep and sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, Barangaroo Reserve ticks all the boxes. 

Go for a stroll or a bike ride along scenic walking paths, relax with a picnic on the grassy terraces, or discover public art installations that tell the stories of Sydney’s past–it’s free!

Located on Sydney’s iconic Circular Quay, the MCA showcases thought-provoking exhibitions from both Australian and international artists. 

Wander through stunning galleries featuring everything from bold installations to cutting-edge photography, and don’t miss the rooftop café for epic harbour views.

PSST: There are some awesome temporary exhibits on at the moment. Check ahead to see if there’s anything that takes your fancy!

Contrary to what the name suggests, you can do more than get your seafood fix at Sydney Fish Market. 

As well as plenty of places to grab fish and chips, fresh seafood ingredients and prawns, there are also cafés, a bakery, restaurants, a gourmet deli, a greengrocer, and, of course, a bottle shop.

Go early for the best pick, and avoid the lunchtime crowds.

Speaking of fish and chips…My favourite place to grab it happens to be in one of the swankiest postcodes in the city, and yes, that place is Doyles. 

Treat yourself to a ferry ride to Watsons Bay, explore the scenic cliffside trails and enjoy living like the select few for a few hours. Weekend goals = sorted.

Last up on our list of things to do in Sydney this weekend, an idea that’ll take your weekend plans to another level (literally).

Perched atop Observatory Hill, this historic site offers breathtaking views of the city by day and a chance to stargaze by night. 

Join an evening tour to peek through powerful telescopes, learn fascinating astronomy facts, and marvel at the southern skies.