Is your next business trip to Sydney?
Sydney is a bustling metropolitan with a difference. Its expansive coastlines, glistening harbour, and world-famous attractions make it the perfect place to explore on your next business trip. As Australia’s largest city, you’ll never be at a loss of things to do in Sydney. Dine out and soak up the sophisticated local food scene, or relax and unwind on one of the many white sand beaches. A mix of vibrant city life and beach town vibes makes Sydney an attractive destination, so make sure that in between your busy schedule, you enjoy all that Sydney has to offer.
Whether you have a couple of hours free in between meetings, a full day or a couple of days, Kelly Thomas, General Manager of Corporate Traveller, has put together her top 9 things to do in Sydney on a business trip including Sydney activities and attractions for your enjoyment.
A few hours (Must Do!)
1. Walk around the Sydney Opera House
Head to one of the world’s most famous tourist attractions, the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Opera House is surreal and the structure is an architectural marvel. Admire the views of the Sydney Opera House, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the harbourside restaurants or if you have a spare hour or two, go on a tour and learn the history behind this famous landmark.
If you're at the Sydney Opera House, be sure to experience an iconic fine dining restaurant, Bennelong. Opened by Australian chef, Peter Gilmore, Bennelong showcases a culturally significant and inspiring menu with outstanding Australian food and wine. Bennelong is known for its incredible location and impeccable menu and has received an unprecedented number of awards - the perfect place for special occasions and corporate events!
2. Walk through the Sydney Royal Botanic Garden
A stroll around Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect way to wind down after a big day of back-to-back meetings. This picturesque garden offers scenic views of Sydney’s harbour and city and scapes 75 acres with over 8,900 plant species. Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden is the ideal place to spend an hour or two; getting some fresh air, taking in the beautiful views, walking and exploring, and enjoying the full sensory experience. You also have the option to take a free self-guided walking tour.
3. Enjoy the Panoramic Views from the Sydney Tower Eye
If you're looking for the best view of the sunset in Sydney, then you must visit the Sydney Tower. Located in Sydney's bustling CDB district, the tower stands 309m high and is the second tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere. Capture the sunset at The Sydney Tower Eye, which offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the city. Sit back and enjoy a cocktail at 360 Bar and Dining while soaking in the revolving views of the skyline, or head to the Sydney Tower Buffet restaurant for a range of international cuisines! Impress guests at the STUDIO - the highest event space in the Southern Hemisphere that can be used for cocktail functions, catering up to 200 people.
4. Indulge in some shopping
You can’t go past hitting the shops in Sydney and there are lots to choose from starting with the Queen Victoria Building. The Queen Victoria Building is one of the most beautiful shopping centres in the world and is filled with 180 of Sydney’s finest stores. Shop big brands and local designers while enjoying the buzzing atmosphere!
Next, head to Oxford Street where you can browse a selection of boutique stores. Oxford Street is one of Sydney's famous shopping strips which runs through the inner Sydney Suburbs of Darlinghurst and Paddington.
Be sure to pop into one of the many markets in Sydney to pick up unique handcrafted items. The most popular include the Paddington Markets, the Bondi Farmers Markets and the Rocks Markets. As well as fantastic shopping, you’ll also find a selection of local produce and food to enjoy while you wander around.
A Full Day
5. Take the ferry to Manly Beach
Step aboard the Manly Ferry and experience more of Sydney from the water. The ferry takes you across Sydney Harbour from Sydney’s CBD to Manly. Make the most of Manly’s delicious cafes, bars, restaurants, beautiful beaches and stunning scenic coastal walks. Admire spectacular coastal views on the walk from Manly to Shelly Beach, or relax and enjoy fish and chips on Manly Beach while admiring views of the Pacific Ocean.
6. Visit The Rocks
Experience one of the most historic parts of Sydney, that has been transformed into a hub of creativity with restaurants, boutique shops and galleries. Tara Tearoom is one of the cosiest cafes, ideal for a morning coffee or mid-morning break. Head to one of the beautiful museums and appreciate the history and historic art - The Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks Discovery Museum or the Susannah Place Museum are highly recommended museums.
7. Head to Darling Harbour for dinner
Enjoy a cocktail and an indulgent meal while soaking up the incredible water or city views at one of Darling Harbours restaurants. With exquisite food from all around the world, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect dinner spot.
A Few Days
8. Go for a coastal walk and explore Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Sydney and is definitely worth the trip. Take a quick dip, surf or sunbathe or better yet, head up to the Icebergs and enjoy the breathtaking views at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar. As one of Sydney’s most popular spots, it is highly recommended that you book in advance.
If you fancy a little more activity, explore one of the most iconic walking trails in Sydney, the beautiful Bondi to Bronte coastal walk. It’s not a stroll in the park but definitely worth doing and a great chance to stretch out your legs after sitting in a boardroom for a couple of days!
9. Head to the Blue Mountains
Explore more of Sydney by heading further inland to the Blue Mountains. Start at the Echo Point Lookout at Katoomba, the gateway to most of the walking trails and the spot to see the Three Sisters rock formation. Take the world’s steepest passenger railway through the rainforest or admire picturesque panoramic views of the mountains from a glass cable car. This magical experience is not to be missed.
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