Booking a trip to Sydney Australia Soon? Then you’ll love this information-packed Sydney Australia travel guide!
Oh, Sydney, where do I even begin? After an insanely long flight (seriously, it felt like a full day in the air!), we finally landed in the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia. If you’re planning a trip, make sure you fill out the EAU form before flying—it’s a quick step, but so important. Trust me, you don’t want any last-minute surprises at the airport.
We stayed at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, which, let me just say, was perfect. Right in the heart of the city, it was close to everything, and the vibe of the hotel was so cozy yet elegant. If you’re coming for an event like we did (hello, Sydney Marathon championships!), this hotel is such a convenient spot to base your adventures.
Sydney Australia Travel Guide
European Travel Alert:
Starting sometime around November 2023, US travelers between 18-70 years old will need to fill out an ETIAS visa-waiver form prior to their trip, and pay a €7 ($7.25) entry fee, to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. It’s a quick form, and you will most likely receive instant approval—but it’s important to plan and submit ahead. Your ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Marathon Day in Sydney
We were here to cheer my dad on in the marathon, which was such an inspiring event. The energy in the city that day was incredible! The streets were packed with spectators, runners, and everyone just soaking in the excitement of the championships. If you love sports or just want to experience the magic of a marathon day, it’s worth planning your trip around this event. Watching all those runners push themselves to the limit was nothing short of amazing!
But Sydney has so much more to offer beyond the marathon scene, and since we stayed so close to everything, we had the perfect chance to explore the city like pros.
Foodie Heaven Around the Radisson Blu Plaza
I’m a sucker for good food, and Sydney did not disappoint. Right near the hotel, you’ll find some great spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and yes, we totally ate out way too much). One morning, we grabbed breakfast at The Grounds of the City, which is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The interior feels like an old-school coffee house, and their avocado toast? Next level.
For a casual lunch, Bar Patron (about 15 minutes away) is perfect if you’re in the mood for Mexican. Their tacos were packed with flavor, and the margaritas? Let’s just say you’ll be tempted to have more than one.
In the evening, Sydney lights up, and we found the perfect spot for dinner and drinks at Restaurant Hubert. It’s got this cozy French bistro vibe, complete with live jazz music. The steak frites were to die for, and the atmosphere made it feel like we had escaped into some hidden gem of a place.
Must-Do Activities in Sydney
If you’re looking for things to do, the Radisson Blu puts you in the perfect spot to walk or hop on public transport to some of Sydney’s iconic landmarks. Of course, we had to hit up the Sydney Opera House, which was about a 12-minute stroll from the hotel. Even if you’re not catching a show, just standing there and taking in the view of the harbor is an experience in itself.
We also made our way to The Royal Botanic Garden, a perfect place to relax and get lost among the flowers and greenery. It’s close to the Opera House, so it’s easy to combine the two in one day.
For a fun, touristy experience, head to Circular Quay. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and from here you can catch a ferry to Manly Beach or Taronga Zoo. The ferry ride itself gives you stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city skyline. Manly Beach is a must if you love the ocean—perfect for swimming, walking along the sand, or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes. Taronga Zoo is also worth a visit, especially if you want to get up close with Australia’s wildlife (kangaroos, koalas, and all the iconic animals).
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss The Rocks District, a short 15-minute walk from the hotel. It’s one of the oldest parts of Sydney, and you can stroll through its cobblestone streets, explore local markets, or take a guided tour to learn more about the city’s history. The Rocks Markets are particularly fun on the weekends, offering unique gifts, artisanal products, and local street food. Definitely one of the best places to pick up some souvenirs!
More Fun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Feeling adventurous? Take a walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can either walk along the pedestrian path for free, or if you’re up for it, book a BridgeClimb Sydney experience, where you’ll climb to the top of the bridge for unbeatable views of the city. It’s such a cool experience, and the photos are absolutely epic.
If beaches are your thing, don’t miss Bondi Beach, about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. It’s world-famous for its beautiful waves and laid-back atmosphere. You can also take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which offers stunning ocean views and plenty of spots to stop and take photos.
For something a little more low-key, head to Hyde Park, which is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or just to relax with a good book under the shade of the trees. You’ll find plenty of statues, fountains, and open spaces to explore.
Nightlife in the City
After marathon day, we wanted to unwind, and the nightlife around the Radisson Blu did not disappoint. If you’re into rooftop bars, head to Smoke Bar at Barangaroo House. The views of the harbor at night were insane, and it was the perfect place to chill with a cocktail while reflecting on the day.
If you’re more into a relaxed pub scene, The Baxter Inn is a speakeasy-style bar just a short walk from the hotel. It’s got a massive whisky selection, and the vibe inside is low-key and cozy—perfect for winding down after a busy day.
Wrapping Up the Adventure
Leaving Sydney was bittersweet, and the ride home felt just as long as the one there. But wow, what a trip! Between cheering on my dad at the marathon, indulging in incredible food, and soaking in the sights, Sydney was everything I hoped it would be and more. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to explore the areas around the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel—you’ll have plenty of places to eat, drink, and explore without even needing a car.
Whether you’re going for a big event or just to soak in the city’s energy, Sydney has so much to offer, and I can’t wait to go back!
More Photos of Sydney
