Saving up to buy a home? Then you’ll need to scrimp and save every spare cent for your deposit – Sydney represents the country’s most expensive property market! Thankfully, the city itself is a place full of adventure and experience, and much of it is free. If you are looking for activities that won’t have you digging deep into your pockets, here are 25 free things to do in Sydney:
1. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens was established in 1816 and is Australia’s oldest scientific institution. It holds free guided tours every day, so grab your walking shoes!
2. Picnic in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the oldest public parkland in Australia and full of history, with sites like the Archibald Fountain, the ANZAC War Memorial and the Pool of Reflection.
3. Ride the Bus
Don’t feel like walking? The 555 shuttle bus runs seven days a week from Central Station all around the CBD. Tickets are completely free and it’s a great way to see Sydney’s impressive architecture.
4. Explore the Queen Victoria Building
The QVB marketplace is filled with shops, cafes and impressive displays, even if you’re just window shopping.
5. Visit Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO world-heritage-listed island found in Sydney Harbour where you can spend the day playing tennis, life-sized chess, or having a picnic.
6. Shop at Paddy’s Markets
Wander around Paddy’s Markets checking out all the trinkets they have on offer!
7. Head to Chinatown
Once you finish up at Paddy’s Markets, right next door is Sydney’s Chinatown, where you can find amazing food at cheap prices.
8. Go for a walk
The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a stunning way to explore the coastline, and if you’re there in May you might even see some whales!
9. Admire the Museum
The MCA is free to enter and filled with different artworks, installations and collections. There are also free guided tours, talks and a café.
10. Adventure in The Rocks
The Rocks is Sydney’s cultural hub, with cobblestone laneways, shops, restaurants, festivals and pop-up stalls.
11. Visit Bondi
Home to the infamous Bondi Beach, Bondi is a place for everyone, whether you’re there for a swim, a surf or a shop at the Bondi Markets.
12. See the Olympic Park
Wander around Sydney Olympic Park, where you can check out concerts, sporting events, festivals or exhibitions – many of which are free.
13. Visit the Art Gallery
The Art Gallery of NSW is home to both national and international artworks and is a place of inspiration and beauty. Admission is free, and so are most of the events!
14. See the Fish Market
The Sydney Fish Market is perfect if you love seafood, whether you just want to take a look around or enrol in one of their professional cooking classes.
15. Explore Darling Harbour
There’s always something happening in Darling Harbour, like festivals, restaurants and live music, with plenty of kids activities scheduled for family visitors.
16. See the Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is one of the most iconic landmarks of Australia. Head out just before sunset for an amazing sight!
17. Shop the Strand
The Strand Arcade in Pitt Street is a great place to browse designer stores and all things fashion.
18.Check out Oxford Street
Oxford Street is renowned for its quirky collective of cafés alongside designer boutiques. Those on a budget can shop the regular markets for a fashion bargain.
19. Walk the Harbour Bridge
Walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a free way to enjoy the gorgeous views while ticking off an item on your Australian must-do list!
20. Shop DFO
Hunt for more bargains at Homebush’s DFO.
21. Explore the Maritime Museum
The ANMM is free to access most areas and is packed full of education.
22. Visit Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
This national park is your chance to take a walk and see authentic rock artwork of some of Australia’s oldest inhabitants: the Guringai.
23. Check out some birds
The Birds Australia Discovery Centre holds regular tours and educational talks on all things feathered.
24. Browse Pyrmont Growers Market
The Pyrmont Growers Market is only held once a month but with its top quality, unique produce, it’s worth checking out if you can time your visit right.
25. Explore the Observatory
The Sydney Observatory is Australia’s oldest observatory and is free to enter, and fun to explore.
