Sydney · Australia · Things to do
5 things to do in Sydney with kids
The five best things to do in Sydney with kids are seeing the Opera House, walking across the Harbour Bridge, swimming at Bondi Beach, riding the harbour ferries, and driving the Great Ocean Road. The first four are in Sydney and fit in three or four days. The Great Ocean Road is in Victoria, near Melbourne, so it needs a separate trip.
What to do, in order
- 1
See the Opera House
The Opera House sits on Bennelong Point at Circular Quay, and the best way to see it is to walk the forecourt and the steps, then follow the harbour path along the Royal Botanic Garden. Guided tours run inside and take about an hour. Children often like to see the shells up close, since the tiled roof looks different from a few metres away. Go in the morning for softer light and fewer people, and finish at Mrs Macquarie's Chair for the classic view.
- 2
Walk the Harbour Bridge
You can walk across the Harbour Bridge for free on the pedestrian path along its east side, with views over the harbour, the Opera House and the city. Access is from Milsons Point or from The Rocks, and the walk takes about half an hour each way. The BridgeClimb goes over the top of the arch and has minimum age rules, so check them for children. The Pylon Lookout inside the south-east pylon is a cheaper way to get height.
- 3
Swim at Bondi Beach
Bondi is Sydney's best known beach, with golden sand, surf and a long promenade. Swim only between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards watch the water, and expect waves that are big for young children. The Bondi Icebergs ocean pool and the beach at nearby Tamarama are options. The coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee takes a few hours, and the Bondi to Bronte section is a good short walk for families. Go early for space and bring sun protection.
- 4
Drive the Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is in Victoria, around 1,000 km from Sydney, so it is not a day trip. The road follows the south coast west of Melbourne, passing surf beaches and rainforest, and reaching the Twelve Apostles, a group of limestone stacks standing in the sea. Fewer than twelve remain, as some have collapsed. Fly to Melbourne and allow at least two days for the drive. Go early at the stacks, when the light is softer and the car parks are quiet.
- 5
Hop the harbour ferries
Sydney's ferries are public transport, so a ride costs little compared to a harbour cruise, and the view is the same. The ferry from Circular Quay to Manly takes about thirty minutes and passes the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the headlands. Another goes to Taronga Zoo, which has a view of the city skyline. Pay with the Opal card or a contactless bank card, and sit on the open deck at the back.
Plan it
- Best time
- September to November and March to May have warm days, mild water and fewer crowds. December to February is hot and the busiest period, with school holidays. June to August is mild but too cool for most swimming.
- How long
- Three to four days is enough for Sydney. The Great Ocean Road is a separate trip of two to three days based out of Melbourne.
- Getting around
- Trains, buses and ferries all use the Opal card or a contactless bank card, and the airport has a direct train. The centre is walkable, and the ferries are the most pleasant way to go further.
Good to know
- Apply sun protection constantly. The Australian sun is strong, even on cloudy days and in spring.
- Check the beach flags and swim only where patrolled. Surf and rips are common.
- Fly to Melbourne for the Great Ocean Road. Driving from Sydney takes about nine to ten hours each way.
Frequently asked
Is the Great Ocean Road near Sydney? +
No. It is in the state of Victoria, southwest of Melbourne, around 1,000 km from Sydney. It is a separate trip: fly to Melbourne and allow at least two days for the drive and the Twelve Apostles.
How many days do you need in Sydney with kids? +
Three to four days covers the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Bondi, a ferry ride and a zoo or museum. Add a day for the Blue Mountains if you want to see more of New South Wales.
Can you walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge for free? +
Yes. A pedestrian path along the east side is open to walkers at no cost, with views of the harbour and the Opera House. Paid options like the BridgeClimb or Pylon Lookout offer more height.
Is Bondi Beach safe for kids? +
Yes, when you swim between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards patrol. Surf and rip currents can be strong, so keep children close and ask a lifeguard about conditions. Younger children may prefer a nearby ocean pool.