Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Sydney

Susan Mills

Sydney has a fantastic public transport system complete with friendly staff to guide you in the right direction. Use the bus, train, or ferry to get where you need to be. The city itself, though it can be hilly, is great for walking.

Lyn D

Download Tripview App to your smartphone for the latest public transport schedule.

Africa Eddie

Australians do not tip. People working in service industries are well paid by world standards, and so do not feel obligated to tip.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

DONNA063

Sydney has a lot of wonderful places to visit that suit all ages and tastes. It has one of the most beautiful harbours in the world with the Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Sydney Opera House as the main focal points. The Blue Mountains are a three-hour train ride and is well worth a visit.

2gnomesinparis

Sydney is a beautiful city to explore. The harbour is so pretty with lots to do. There are many things to see and do around Sydney as well as wonderful shopping. The cafes and restaurants are amazing! Easy to get around, you can walk to most things. Our amazing beaches are a short bus or ferry ride from the city. Kids will love the zoo and the view over the harbour from the zoo is to die for! The air is clean, the sky is blue, the harbour is magnificent!

Michael N

Sydney has become a cosmopolitan city compared favorably with other great cities of the world. Centered around its magnificent harbour, there are many attractions and experiences to be enjoyed.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) is Australia’s busiest airport, with daily flights to/from major global destinations on dozens of airlines.

Do I need a visa?

All visitors (except New Zealand citizens), require a temporary visa to visit Sydney. Visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs for visa information.

When is the best time to visit?

March to May: The best times to visit Sydney are between March and May and September and November. You’ll find more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds — which means you can likely nab better prices on airfare, too.

But if you want to warm up with the masses from winter back home, the average daily temperatures in January can hit highs of 30°C/86°F and lows around 20°C/67°F.

Sydney has a great public transportation network. Be sure to download the TripView app for train, ferry, bus and light rail schedules.

Buying an Opal Card is another must for getting around Sydney as it’s the easiest way to pay for public transit. For more info, visit here.

Trains

The Sydney Metro system is still under construction, but it currently has one line running from Chatswood to Tallawong. You can also get local and regional train service on NSW TrainLink and Sydney Trains to/from Central Station.

Trams

There are two tram lines in Sydney that can also get you around town.

Bus

Sydney’s massive bus network operates until midnight usually, and there are many hubs around the city.

Ferries

The nine routes of Sydney Ferries are a great way to get around and see the city.

Bikes

Though traffic can be intense, Sydney has bike lanes and many bike-rentals companies.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Sydney for hailing and booking via the NSW Taxi Council.

Rideshares

Uber can be booked via its app on your smartphone.