Sydney Itinerary for 7 Days: A DIY Travel Guide for First-timers

Known for its iconic Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney is truly a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. In addition to these landmarks, it also boasts beautiful beaches like Bondi and Coogee Beach, along with many other stunning natural attractions!

Sydney, Australia, has always been my dream. I had been planning this trip for years, and it finally happened! Honestly, my Australian tourist visa journey wasn’t easy, even with a good travel history. It actually took me three attempts before my tourist visa was finally granted! Can you imagine that? Haha. It was definitely a long journey, but I’m so grateful it finally came true. While I stayed in Melbourne for 5 days, I was able to explore Sydney for 7 days!

With that, I’m beyond excited to share with you my 7-day Sydney travel guide! If you’re planning to visit Sydney, Australia, for the first time, this comprehensive 7-day Sydney itinerary has everything you need—what to do, where to stay, and all the must-see spots in between!

Table of Contents

Essential Travel Guides & Tips

sydney itinerary for 7 days for first timers

sydney itinerary for 7 days for first time visitors

Here are a few important travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Sydney:

Get an Opal Card: It’s your all-in-one public transport card for trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. You can top it up at convenience stores or stations.
Google Maps: Super helpful when exploring the city on foot.
Use sunscreen: The Aussie sun can be intense even on a cloudy day.
Eating out can be pricey: Look for food courts, Asian eateries in Haymarket, or cook your own meals if you’re staying at a hostel.
Use KLOOK for activity bookings: I used it for the Harbour Cruise and Blue Mountains tour. Don’t forget to use my discount code “ARAPATRIAKLOOK” to save more!
Comfortable shoes are a must.

Australian Tourist Visa Application Guide from the Philippines

If you are planning to visit Australia, here’s a complete step-by-step guide on how to apply for an Australian tourist visa from the Philippines!

Australian Visa Application Checklist for Filipinos (must save this!)

how to apply for australian tourist visa from philippines

How to Get from Sydney Airport to the City?

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is only about 20–30 minutes from the city center. The most convenient option is the Airport Link train, which runs every 10 minutes and drops you at Central Station or Circular Quay. Fares are around AUD 19.

Alternatively, rideshare apps like Uber and Ola are available, but they tend to be more expensive during peak hours.

Where to Stay in Sydney, Australia?

I stayed in hostels near Central Station, which was super convenient for getting around. Sydney has tons of hostel options, especially in areas like Haymarket, Surry Hills, or even Bondi if you want a beach vibe.

Recommended Budget Hostels:

Mad Monkey Kings Cross (if you’re into social vibes)
Wake Up! Sydney (near Central Station)
Sydney Harbour YHA (great views and location)

Sydney Itinerary for 7 Days

Day 1

Arrive at Sydney Airport
Check in at the hostel
Haymarket (for dinner)
Rest

Day 2

Queen Victoria Building (QVB)
World Square
Hyde Park
Royal Botanic Garden
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)
Circular Quay
Sydney Harbour at night

Day 3

Blue Mountains Tour
Haymarket
Opera House + Circular Quay

Day 4

Dunningham Reserve
Bondi Beach
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Sydney Harbour Cruise (sunset)

Day 5

Featherdale Wildlife Park

Day 6

Observatory Hill Park
St. Mary’s Cathedral
Barangaroo Reserve
Chinatown
Sydney Opera House + Harbour Bridge

Day 7

Depart from Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Sydney?

The best months are September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn). The weather is just right—not too hot, not too cold.

Is 7 days in Sydney enough?

Yes! This itinerary covers both city and nature experiences. If you want to explore more of New South Wales, you could extend your stay, but 7 days is a solid amount of time.

Is Sydney safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Just be mindful at night and watch your belongings in busy areas like train stations or beaches.

Can you visit the Blue Mountains on your own?

You can! There’s a train from Central Station to Katoomba, but I recommend a guided day tour for convenience, especially if you want to hit all the scenic spots in one day.

How much should I budget for Sydney?

Daily budget ranges from AUD 70–100 for budget travelers (hostels, transit, and meals). Attractions and tours will add up, so plan around AUD 800–1000 for a week, depending on your activities.

Sydney is everything you imagine—and more. The mix of vibrant city life, laid-back beach culture, and breathtaking landscapes makes it one of the most unforgettable places I’ve ever visited.

If you’re planning a trip to Australia, Sydney is a must! Whether it’s soaking in views from the Harbour Bridge, meeting kangaroos for the first time, or just chilling by Bondi Beach, this city has a way of making every moment count!