free walking tours sydney australia

The Rocks Free Walking Tour

6pm daily. Click ‘join a tour’ to see up to date availability and book your place.

• Click 'Join a tour' for times
• 1½ hours walking tour
• FREE (Pay what you think it's worth)
• Tour starts at Cadmans Cottage (in the waterside courtyard in front of the building)

Uncover The Rocks District

Join us on this Rocks Free Tour and we’ll delve into the history of The Rocks, the site of Australia’s first European settlement. We’ll explore its lane ways, pubs, and historical buildings and share with you its stories of murders, muggings and mysteries.

What we'll cover

– The Rocks’ Laneways – Historic Pubs and Breweries – Australia’s Largest Bank Robbery – The First Hanging in Sydney – Convicts, Sailors and Rocks’ Characters – Murders and Mysteries – Sydney City’s Oldest House – Observatory Hill – Foundation Park – The Rocks Today – Susannah Place – The Plague in Sydney – The Big Dig archaeological site

Join a tour

Please note:  We aren’t able to accept groups of 10+ or school / tertiary education groups of any size on the free tours. Instead we offer  Private Tours . Separate registration of large groups will not be accepted on the day as it affects the tour for everyone else.

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How are we free?

Our tours are offered on a “pay what you think it’s worth”  model so people of any budget are able to turn up and enjoy the tour and discover and learn the stories and history of The Rocks.

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At i'm free we're all about.

All I’m Free guides are experienced and knowledgeable locals who are excited to show you around their hometown.

We’re all about being real!  Each of us  will share with you our  honest, local advice about  where to explore, eat or drink . We are never paid to promote or advertise to you.

We will share with you the unique and quirky stories of our city as well as the history behind our main attractions.

Recommended by

We think we rock The Rocks, but don’t take our word for it, checkout what others think.

Where to meet

Yes, we require bookings so that we can manage numbers and guide availability.

Nope. Not due to weather, we walk rain, hail or shine!

We do however, take the current health situation very seriously. In the unlikely event that your guide is at all unwell before the tour and we can’t replace the guide at short notice we may have reschedule. Equally if you’re not feeling well please let us know and we’ll be happy to reschedule your booking to another time when you’re feeling 100%.

‘The Rocks at 6pm’ tour ends in the Rocks no more than a 5 minute walk from where we started and your guide will be happy to point you in the right direction to where you need to go.

Unfortunately, no. Our free tours are designed for individuals and small groups. Instead we can organise a private tour for you, so fill in the form on the private tour page and we can organise something for you.

Please don’t book as multiple smaller groups as we will have to turn you away on the day.

Unfortunately not. Our free tours are designed for independent individuals and small groups. Instead we can organise a private tour for you, so fill in the form on the private tour page and we can organise something for you.

The Rocks at 6pm tour starts from the waterside of Cadmans Cottage in the Rocks, between the Overseas Passenger Terminal and the Museum of Contemporary Art. It is also a 5 minute walk from Circular quay train station west along the water front.   Click here for Google Maps directions.

Unfortunately due to the historical nature of the Rocks district ‘The Rocks’ tour is not accessible for wheelchairs. We have had plenty of prams join us on the Rocks tour. If you’re happy to carry the pram up a few flights of stairs it is very manageable.

It is a walking tour. This tour is only 2-2.5km (1.2-1.5 miles) in total. Due to the historic nature of The Rocks precinct it does have some stairs and up hills at points. However we walk at a leisurely pace, stopping to speak at regular intervals along the way.

Our tours are designed to be suitable for people of all ages. Over the years we have toured a wide variety of audiences of all ages and backgrounds including many families and children.

At the moment we only offer tours in English.

It can be tricky to find the group once they are under way.

That said we give 5 minutes for people to turn up late and then are at the start point for a few minutes after that.

From there we walk to George St and head a little south (left) before heading west through the Suez canal to Harrington St and north (right) to Argyle St. We then head west (left) along Argyle St to Cambridge St (pedestrianised) where we head south (left) to Susannah Place.

Thank you for thinking of others to create spaces for them to join.

If you need to cancel or change the date of your booking there is a link in your confirmation email that allows you to do that. 

If you need to change the number of people in your booking get in touch and we can adjust it for you.

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Free Walking Tour Sydney

Join i'm free walking tours on a fantastic tour around sydney and get local insights into australia's most famous city, free  sydney walking tour.

G’day mate!

We are your local guides at I’m Free Walking Tours. We’re your complete connection to Sydney and Melbourne’s history, sights, and culture. As Sydneysiders, we will share with you the stories and history of the city we have grown up in and love . Not only the stories behind our famous icons, but also parts of the city that many locals don’t know.

Did you know that the Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened by a sword wielding man on horseback?

To help you best experience our city whilst you’re here we will provide you with 100% independent advice on what to see and do.

Operating since 2009 , we believe in helping you get the most out of your time in Sydney. For this reason we will share with you our personal recommendations, not places we are paid to promote!

Head to our website for more information about our tours of Sydney’s sights and historical Rocks district , and to register for a tour that suits you.

Pictures from our walks

What visitors think about Free  Sydney Walking Tour?

Frequently asked questions about the tour

What is the difference between the sydney sights and the rocks tour which one should i do, do i need to book an i’m free tour of sydney, where does the tour start and how do i find my i’m free tour guide, is the tour ever cancelled, are your tours accessible for wheelchairs and prams, get inspired by the free tour community blog.

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Free Sydney Walking Tours

Regular Free Walking tours run only on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10.30 am.

posted 16/06/2021

Explore Sydney and The Rocks on a single tour

2.5 hours historical walking tour

Recommended by Lonely Planet

Experienced tour guides

This tour is designed for people who:

are interested in history

have curious minds

are good walkers

Free Walking Tour Sydney & The Rocks

at 10.30am from Archibald Fountain in Hyde Park

tour guides in orange 'Free Tours' uniforms

Booking is essential

Our meeting location:

Archibald Fountain in Hyde Park

(a 2-minute walk from St James train station)

We're recommended by:

If you thought that Sydney's history is short and boring, think again. It is interesting and fascinating. And we are going to share it with you.

Our "Colonial walk in modern Sydney" tour covers both Sydney and The Rocks. It contains carefully selected information to give it solid historic content, but keep it interesting, fun and entertaining.

Walk with local guides who are experts in history, love their city and enjoy sharing their favourite places with you. Join our tour and you will see our iconic world-famous sights as well as hidden gems of Sydney that you would never find on your own.

Sydney walks will give you a rare insight into our fascinating past as a British colony. We will explore The Rocks - the first convict settlement in Australia. You will learn about the history of this notorious area, wander cobblestone lanes listening to amusing stories of survival, convicts, gangs and pubs.

We will finish our tour enjoying breathtaking views of our Sydney Harbour with two icons: the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

In addition, you will be introduced to Sydney as a modern vibrant cosmopolitan city with lots of photo opportunities, tips on places to visit and things to do in Sydney beyond the tour.

The walking tour will cover

both Sydney and The Rocks

You will see and hear about:

• St.Mary's Cathedral

The Sydney Opera House

• Sydney Harbour Bridge

'Rum' Hospital

Aboriginal history.

• St.James' Church
• Il Porcellino

Hyde Park Barracks

• Queen's Square
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Old Colonial Town Square
• Historical Macquarie street
• The 60 hidden birds
• Heritage Bridge street
• Australia's legendary cat

• Old Government Stables
• Sydney Tower
• Parliament House
• Martin Place
• Garden Palace

Customs House

• Macquarie Obelisk
• Museums and Galleries

• 'Edge of Trees'

The Rocks - How it all started

The colony - story of survival.

• Old Police Station
• Suez Canal and Nurses Walk
• Sydney's Oldest Pubs
• Oldest Woodblock Road
• 'First Impressions' Obelisk

• Campbells Cove

Convicts, Gangs and Pubs

• Cadman's Cottage
• Walk to China

Laneways and Hidden Places

• 'Battle for The Rocks'
• Circular Quay
• The Rocks Markets

Things to do in Sydney

The tour starts at Hyde Park and finishes at The Rocks

How are our tours free:

We leave it up to you to decide what our tour is worth.

Locl Tour Sydney is an independent tour provider not paid or sponsored by any organization.

We rely entirely on contribution offered to us by those who have enjoyed the day.

* No tours on Christmas Day (25th December), Australia Day (26th January) and ANZAC day (25th April).

* Due to the nature of The Rocks area our walking tour is not wheelchair accessible.

* Groups of 6 or more people are required to contact us at least 48 hours in advance.

* Free walking tours are ONLY for individuals, couples and small families under 5 people.

* Organized groups are not permitted to join free walking tours. Groups booked as individuals will not be accepted.

* Our tour guides reserve the right to deny participation of any group.

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"Do you ever cancel walking tours?"

When a Severe Weather Warning is issued by authorities and being outside is deemed to be unsafe the walking tour will be cancelled on short notice.

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SYDNEY FREE WALKING TOURS

Take part in a tour of Sydney - Australia's largest and most famous destination.

Over 5 million residents call Sydney home and why wouldn't they? The capital of New South Wales, with its luxurious harbour and jaw dropping Opera House, epitomises what Australia means to so many across the world.

See our favourite Sydney tours here. Some are free with no upfront cost and operate on a tipping basis, while others have associated costs.

We only list tours we'd personally use.  I f you click links on our site, we may earn a small commission. T ours  not operated by Buddy Free Walk ing Tours. ​

Free Walking Tours of Sydney

Daily Sydney walkings tours operated by I'm Free Tours . Choose between the main Sydney Sights and the Free Sydney Rocks tours. Your tour guide will wear green. For information regarding starting times, lengths of the tours as well as meeting points, please visit their website .

Free Tours Sydney offers a single daily walking tour that encompasses both Sydney and the The Rocks District. Lasting about two and half hours, the tour meets at the Archibald Fountain at Hyde Park daily at 10:30am (time and meeting place may change, please visit tour page for details.

Experience a warm introduction and welcome from a Sydney Greeter. A volunteer who loves Sydney guides you through their favourite spots in the city, local style. For more details and to book a tour, visit the Sydney Greeter page . 

The Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney offers tours of the gallery, some of which are free. Worthwhile to visit and check it out.

Free guided tours of The Royal Botanic Garden of Sydney. Explore the vast heritage and range of picturesque plant life at the botanic garden with a friendly local guide. Details here .

Audio Guided Tour of Sydney

An alternative to a classic tour and for those that like the independence. The no hassle 2 hour guided audio tour of Sydney takes you through the major sights of Sydney including the Sydney Opera House, St James’ Church and the Museum of Sydney before taking in the beauty of the Rocks, the General Post Office, Sydney Parliament and the Government House. Learn more  about the tour .

Other Sydney Tours (not free but highly rated)

"Sydney is a marvellous and inspiring place"

Dani, visitor to Sydney in December 2022

Sydney - Australia's most popular destination

Whether you plan to take it easy on sunny picturesque beaches, visit some world famous restaurants and bars or explore the nature and wildlife in and around Sydney, the city has so much to offer for all types of visitors and budgets. Major sights not to miss include Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi and Manly beaches, Taronga Zoo, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Circular Quay, botanical gardens, Hyde park, Chinese Garden of Friendship and numerous museums and art galleries.

When you arrive to Sydney, why not take a free walking tour to get a friendly and easy introduction to this amazing city.

The list above shows which free tours are currently operating.

The tours listed are described as free. What does this mean? Generally, it means the tours have no upfront cost. Some tours may operate on a tips only basis where if you like the tour, you can pay your guide how much the tour was worth to you at the end. Didn't like it? No obligations to pay. Check each tour for details.

Most tours operate in English but some tours may be available in other languages including Spanish (tour gratis de Sydney en español), Chinese (免费城市徒步之旅), Italian (tour a piedi gratuito di Sydney in italiano) and French (visite gratuite de Sydney en français).

The tours of Sydney listed here are not operated by Buddy Free Walking Tours. Therefore, we advise you to visit the websites and find out directly from the operators up to date times, dates and other details of the tours. The information listed here is only a snapshot and we take no responsibility for any missing infor mation or safety of tours.  See details on tour operator website for details and any COVID-19 restrictions currently in place and if the tour is active at the moment.

Are you a tour operator in or around Sydney? Contact us to get listed here.

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Sydney Greeters ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ Free Personal Walking Tour with a Local

Discover sydney through a free personal walk with a local.

Sydney Greeters offers visitors everything they are looking for.

Come to Sydney, meet with one of the Sydney Greeters and discover our beautiful city!

A Sydney Greeter will show you the highlights of the city if that is what you are looking for. But we advise you to ask your Greeter to show you some of the hidden gems, things that you won’t find in a guidebook but will surprise you!  Or ask your Greeter for the best spots to get a coffee, ask what special pastries Sydney offers, where you can find vintage clothing, or whatever you are interested in.

Your Greeter will tell you about Sydney as well as about his/her personal life in Sydney . Isn’t it great to find somebody who is willing to give time, experience, energy while you are here?

Request your Sydney Greeter here!

Tell us about your project to visit our city

Click here to submit your Greet request!

Remember: A Greet means meeting a local resident to walk around town with you as new friends. The first step will be to talk to the Greeter about the details of your personalized tour. It's not about taking part in a standardized tour, but about exploring the city with an expert volunteer .

Who are the Greeters?

Of course we are willing to show you some of the highlights of Sydney.

These highlights are part of our history so they are part of our lives. However, Sydney Greeters also want to show the things that you will not find in a guidebook or are hard to discover if you are just wandering about.

What our guests say

Karen was top notch fantastic!!!! We would have never found the things she showed us or known the significance of the things we seen if it wasn’t for her. She made our trip! She found things that interested us and focussed on those things as well as her regular tour. She even went out of her way to meet us at our hotel. We are so appreciative for her time, energy and thoughtfulness!!!!

Our Greeter, Lyn, was prompt and very friendly on arrival. We’ve used greeters in other Countries, and you just never quite know how the day will go; you could get a History buff who talks until your eyes glaze over or you’d like to put an ice pick in your ear, or you might possibly get that one Greeter that is very rigid with their schedule and everything must move along at a precise time, but our day with Lynn was a lovely combination of information and ease, history and hilarity!!!

Click here to send us your personal review on your latest Greet!

Become a sydney greeter or send us an email.

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Rocks at 6pm Free Walking Tour

Overview of the tour in Sydney

Come with us as we embark on an adventure through the history of The Rocks, the site of Australia's first European settlement. We will make our way through its alleys, pubs, and historic buildings. Discuss our indigenous history and marvel at the beautiful sites as we explore this incredible district.

This activity includes:

• Cadmans Cottage
• Susannah Place
• Sydney Laneways - Sydney Culture History Walks
• Foundation Park
• The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre
• Murders and Mysteries
• The First Hanging
• Convicts, Sailors and Rocks’ Characters
• Australia’s Largest Bank Robbery
• Historic Pubs and Breweries
• Sydney Cities Oldest House
• The current Rocks Protests

Meeting point

in front (water side) of Cadman’s Cottage.

110 George St (water Side) in front of Cadman’s Cottage in Circular Quay west.

Things to note

If you are a group of 10 or more. Please register with us at least 24 hours in advance.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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The Rocks Self-Guided Walk Sydney

A visit to The Rocks shows off historical Sydney at its best. I created this Rocks self-guided walk to help you discover Sydney’s colonial history in just a couple of hours. There is also ample opportunity to visit a couple of old pubs and take in stunning harbour views from the foreshore. I love wandering around this part of the city and I am sure you will too!

Stop 1. Circular Quay Station for the best train station view in the world!

Stop 2. the museum of contemporary art (mca), stop 3. cadman’s cottage, stop 4. visit the rocks discovery museum, stop 5. the rocks square, stop 6. visit foundation park, stop 7. observatory hill, stop 8 and 9. choose a pub on cumberland street and rest for a while, stop 10. the big dig site, stop 11. susannah place, stop 12. suez lane and nurses walk, stop 13. campbell’s stores, stop 14. tar-ra dawes point park, stop 15. overseas passenger terminal viewing platform, the rocks self guided walking tour map, guided tours of the rocks.

This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here .

Let’s start with the name given to this western side of the harbour. Why is this area called The Rocks? When the First Fleet arrived, they moored here against the very rocky shoreline, and the area quickly earned the nickname The Rocks. In time, the name caught on and began to appear on government maps.

The indigenous name for the Rocks is Tallawoladah, as you will see on new signage around the area. You will also note Ta-ra (Dawes Point), Warrane (Circular Quay)

Read Six Commonly Asked Questions About Aboriginal Sydney to learn more about the First Nations people of Australia.

So let’s get walking; the route below explores my favourite parts of this area. Allow about 2-3 hours for a stroll, although you could race around and cover it in a lot less. It depends on how often you stop for photos or beer!

Before we begin, you really should see this view. Even if you don’t come by train, as long as you have an Opal card, you can tap on, go up to Platform 2, take a photo and then tap back out without it costing a cent.

As you leave the station, you will walk to the left of the wharves, towards the park and large sandstone building; this art déco structure is the  Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) . Most of the exhibits here are free to visit.

Along with some fantastic modern art, there is also a rooftop cafe with very reasonable prices and superb views. A perfect stop if you feel you need some coffee or drink before you start on your walk. 

Discover more of Sydney’s Museums here

Once you leave the MCA and the waterfront, head left into the small park and Cadman’s Cottage.

Cadman’s Cottage is the oldest surviving residential building in Australia. It initially sat right at the water’s edge until the government reclaimed the shoreline to build Circular Quay.

The cottage was named after its resident John Cadman, a coxswain in the colony, assigned to look after the ships. Sadly, because of its age and state of repair, it is no longer open to the public. Walk up Argyle Street using the stairs on the left-hand side of the building. This brings you to George Street. Cross the road at the zebra crossing on the corner and make your way to Argyle Street.

The first corner on the right is Kendall Lane. Head down the lane until you come to The Rocks Discovery Museum . This museum is open daily from 10am – 5pm and entry is free.

Housed within a meticulously restored 1850s sandstone warehouse, this family-friendly museum showcases a diverse collection of archaeological artifacts and images, offering a hands-on exploration of The Rocks’ fascinating past.

I find the interactive exhibits, that have been designed to breathe life into the Rocks storied history, really help develop your understanding of the area.

The four permanent exhibitions:

• Warrane (pre-1788)
• Colony (1788–1820)
• Port (1820–1900)
• Transformations (1900–present)

Discover the heritage of The Rocks, from the indigenous custodians to the arrival of the English settlers, and the bustling maritime hub it became. Learn about the vibrant community that emerged, the union movements of the 1970s, and how this historic precinct was preserved for generations to come.

The collection has been developed in collaboration with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council, to share the indigenous stories and heritage of the region.

This is a great place to get some context before you explore the back streets. It’s also really well set up for younger visitors with activity sheets to get them involved in the collection.

Even if you are not one for museums, it’s an excellent example of the architecture of the time.

Once you exit the Museum, head back to the Visitors Centre and turn into Playfair Street. 

You are now in Rocks Square, where you will find an outdoor dining area, takeaway food shops and, of most interest, a set of terrace houses built in the early 1880s.

These days the terraces are home to shops and tour booking centres.

At the George Street end of the square is a sandstone sculpture, First Impressions, worth checking out.

Use our map to find some of Sydney’s most historic buildings

After shopping, look for the narrow passageway between the shopfronts at 25 and 27 Playfair St. This leads to our next stop, Foundation Park.

Foundation Park is a bit of a secret gem; in fact, many Sydneysiders have never visited. The site is the remains of 8 terrace houses built in the late 1870s. In the early 1970s, the area was preserved and turned into a park. You can see some photos of the original terraces here .

From here, climb the stairs to Gloucester Walk and walk left along the street until you see the stairs that head up to Cumberland Street (they are next to the back of the Glenmore Hotel). Cross Cumberland Street and take another staircase to Observatory Hill.

Observatory Hill is a brilliant spot to check out the western side of the Harbour. From up here, you can see Miller’s Point, Barangaroo, and an alternate view of the Harbour Bridge.

You will also find the Sydney Observatory, the S. H. Ervin Gallery and the National Trust. You can visit these buildings or sit awhile and take in the view.

After you have finished exploring here, head back to the staircase to Cumberland Street.

Decision time! By now, you are probably in need of a short break. Cumberland Street boasts two excellent choices, The Glenmore Hotel and The Australian Heritage Hotel.

The Glenmore Hotel has a lovely rooftop bar with affordable food and a great view of the Opera House.

The Australian Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to taste a couple of Aussie classics on a pizza. They have options with kangaroo or emu! They also do beer tasting paddles, although partaking in one of these might see your walk come to an end 🙂

We have a detailed article on the Pubs of the Rocks if you would like to explore more of their fascinating history.

The Big Dig excavation site is our next stop. Head south past the Australian Hotel till you reach the Sydney Harbour Youth Hostel.

In the mid-1990s, when development of this site began, foundations of old shops and homes dating back to the 1790s were discovered. A team of 20 archaeologists went on to discover over 75,000 artefacts.

A selection of the items is on display in glass cabinets viewable in the foyer of the Sydney YHA. You can also explore the ground floor of the hostel where you can see the building’s foundations.

From here, walk through the walkway to Gloucester Street, and directly across the road to your left. You will find our next stop, Susannah Place.

I love  Susannah Place . Part of the Sydney Museums of History, the site features four homes in an original terrace building. They have preserved each house as it was across four different decades.

You can only visit on a free guided tour which are offered Thursday to Sunday and must be booked in advance.

If you don’t have time to join one, you can still visit the small shop on the corner. It sells a variety of items suited to the period and will give you an idea of the condition of the rest of the property.

Once you leave Susannah Place, walk down the stairs beside the shop and see the properties from the back – this site looks almost the same as it did 100 years ago.

Continue down the stairs, officially called the Cumberland steps, to Harrington Street and turn left. Just south of the staircase you will find a lovely sculpture by Leonie Rhodes titled Child of the Rocks.

Turn back towards the harbour and cross the road. A hundred metres or so along you will come to the Mission Stairs and a sign saying Nurses Walk.

Officially called Harrington Lane, this walkway had been known as Suez Lane for over 150 years. The narrow lane filled with water after rains making it appear like a canal. The Rock was a pretty dirty spot so many joked it was sewers canal.

It was also a hot spot of crime and passion (of the paid sort).

About halfway along the street, turn right into Nurses Walk. This laneway was the direct route that the nurses took to Sydney’s first hospital. Today it is home to gift shops and cafes. The walkways feature signs for those wanting to know more about the history of this spot.

Now follow the passageway out to George Street and walk towards the Harbour Bridge end of the street. Along the way, do a bit of window shopping in the stores and cafes along the road. On weekends, a market runs along the far end of this street.

When you get to the corner of George Street and Hickson Road, take Hickson Road and walk down the stairs towards the water.

This beautiful old warehouse is called Campbell’s Stores and was built in 1839 to house tea, alcohol, sugar, and fabric that came into the port.

These days it’s home to upmarket restaurants and function centres. The stores and the surrounding area has recently been restored.

Stop half way when you reach the Park Hyatt Hotel and stand close to the glass to capture this optical illusion.

Continue round the path until you reach the park under the bridge.

From here, you can follow the path around to Dawes Point and capture a shot of the Harbour Bridge and palm trees.

Retrace your steps around Campbell’s Cove to the Overseas Passenger Terminal and take the elevator to the fourth floor.

Take the stairs up another level, and you have a bird’s-eye view of Circular Quay and the Harbour Bridge. Even if you can’t climb the stairs the view from the fourth floor is exceptional.

So there you are – you have finished your self-guided walk of the Rocks. On the Google map below, you will find all the stops plus an extended walk covering another dozen stops.

Open the map in My Maps to see the various options.

If you prefer a guided experience, there are lots of tours available in the area, including:

• a 90 minute guided walking tour
• a longer “ Ultimate Sydney ” walking tour
• a haunted Sydney ghost tour ,
• a very appropriate a Rocks pub tour , that is especially fun if you a solo traveller and fancy a night out,
• illi-Langi The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour with Dreamtime Southern X
• the Sydney Photography Tour .

There is also a free tour with I’m Free every evening at 6 pm.

If you have some energy left and want more, continue under the bridge to Walsh Bay and explore these old harbour wharves. Buses 431 and 433 head back to the city from George St near Lower Fort St or keep walking around to the brand new Barangaroo Reserve and the restaurants of Warrigal Walk.

21 thoughts on “The Rocks Self-Guided Walk Sydney”

Love the rocks area of Sydney. I would love do this self guided tour it would be amazing. So much history in this area of sydney. Plus my favorite german restaurant Lowenbrau keller is in the rocks

Great itinerary! I much prefer a (well informed) self guided walk than a tour and I’ve visited Sydney a couple of times and thought I had seen most of ‘The Rocks’ but you have shown me how wrong I was! Have bookmarked you post for my next trip to Sydney. Thank you!

I have been to Sydney twice. Both times just for a few days. Unfortunately we missed out on so many things you are writing about. were mainly in the Opera House area. What a pity ( I love to have those view on the Opera House) Well, next time 🙂

I’m embarrassed to admit that when I was in Sydney I missed quite a lot of these sights. I visited The Rocks but was distracted by the weekend market they have there, which is amazing. I guess I’ll have to go back now and use your post as my guide!

It’s easy to walk down George Street and be distracted by the markets or one of the many pubs lol but there is so much history to uncover I think it’s worth a little more time if you have some to spare next time. 🙂

I hope you get to come back and spend a bit of time in my favourite part of the city Arzo.

I have not been to the Lowenbrau for years, cause I am with visitors they want to try a local Aussie style place. Must pop in for a beer in your honor Mark 🙂 It has great outdoor seating for people watching.

En mi visita a Sydney, fue la parte que mas me gusto, junto con woollara.

This is such a neat tour! I did this yesterday with a group of my international students and they weren’t the only ones discovering new places, I learned a lot too. One of them told me that when we told them we were doing a walking tour that it was going to be really boring, but it was so much fun!

So glad they enjoyed it Sammie. It’s one of my favourite parts of the city and there are lots of hidden spots to find!

Another interesting post highlighting a few things that are new to me. I must do this walk soon. Thanks.

Followed most of this tour and it was a well laid out tour to give you a good idea of The Rocks.

Visiting Sydney with my family soon. I’m planning a trip to the Rock. This will be helpful. May I know how long it takes to complete the trip as per the Rocks Self-Guided Walk?

Hi YC You can cover this walk in an hour quite easily. 90 minutes would be comfortable allowing for photo stops.

I will be traveling with both my parents, 2 toddlers (4 years old & 1 1/2 years old) and my wife. My dad is using wheelchair but can still move around slowly with the help of crutches. If I push the wheelchair, may I know if Observatory Hill and Sydney Observatory are accessible by my dad? With the wheelchair, is it possible for us to reach the hill and the Observatory by foot?

I’ll be travelling with both my parents, 2 toddlers (4 years old & 1 1/2 years old) and my wife. My dad is using wheelchair but can still move around slowly with the help of crutches.

We plan to stop at the recommended attractions as per the Rock Self-Guilded Walk and to take photo.

If we follow the Rocks Self-Guided Walk and start the walk at 2pm. Do you think we will be able to complete the walk by 6pm? or possible to complete the walk earlier?

Appreciate your kind assistance.

Visitors using wheelchairs are able to access Sydney Observatory gardens, Space theatre, ground floor exhibitions and the East Dome telescope. There is no wheelchair access to the North and South telescope domes due to narrow and steep staircases in the heritage-listed buildings. Accessing the hill itself is not easy but it is possible. This map should help https://goo.gl/maps/qSEcuSXm2CjvabMF6

It is completely possible to complete the walk in 4 hours. I can do it in 90 mins so it really depends on how long you take at each stop.

How much time we should allocated for Museum of Contemporary Art if we just visit the free exhibits and take photo?

This is truly amazing! Doing your street art walk tomorrow but bookmarking this one for next week – thanks so much!

I hope you enjoy them both Caroline!

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Self-Guided Sydney Walking Tour to Top Sydney Landmarks

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Sydney, Australia has a fascinating history and world-famous sights. Home to iconic Australian landmarks – like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge – a Sydney walking tour should be on every visitor’s to-do list.

The top Sydney landmarks are found in the compact Central Business District, making it easy to see the sights on foot. We created this self-guided free walking tour of Sydney for visitors who want to see the famous landmarks in Australia at their own pace. 

That said, visitors interested in booking one of the Sydney guided tours will find our top recommendations for the best guided Sydney walking tours later in the article. 

Best Sydney Walking Tour

We love touring cities on our own and have created what we feel is the best Sydney Self Guided Walking Tour. 

Our easy-to-follow, free tour of Sydney is a great way to see Sydney in a day. We have included information on each sight and a useful Sydney walking tour map at the end of the post. Plus, to help visitors find their way on our walking tour in Sydney, we share step-by-step walking directions and a link to Google Maps to easily get online walking directions. 

That said, we also recommend stopping at the Sydney Visitor Centre kiosk at Circular Quay (where our self-guided Sydney walking tour starts) to pick up a map and ask any additional questions you might have.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Free Walking Tour of Sydney for your vacation to Australia!

Self-Guided Walking Tour Sydney: Top Sydney Landmarks

Our Sydney self-guided walking tour loops around the city and highlights the best sightseeing in Sydney for free . And who doesn’t want the best tours in Sydney for free?!

The route of our Best Free Walking Tour Sydney is nearly 8 miles long (13.5 km) and will take about 4-5 hours to complete. More time will be needed to enter any of the museums and attractions listed along the route.

Most of the Sydney walking tour is on foot, however, we include one short ferry ride to get from Darling Harbour back to Circular Quay. The route is ideal as a Sydney one-day tour, but visitors with more time can split it into two days of sightseeing.

Our free city tour of Sydney starts at Circular Quay. 

#1 Circular Quay

MAP . Circular Quay is an ideal place to start exploring the city, which is why it is the first stop on our Sydney City Tour Itinerary. Located on the north side of the Central Business District, Circular Quay is the beating heart of Sydney. A steady pulse of buses, ferries and trains transit through the harbor that is a must-see for tourists.

While the harbor hosts top Sydney landmarks, it also has historical significance. Circular Quay was the landing site for the first ships carrying European convicts to Australia. It was from the penal colony built on these shores that Sydney grew into the city it is today.

From the Circular Quay harbor, begin walking east and follow the shoreline north to the Sydney Opera House.

#2 Sydney Opera House

MAP . The Opera House is, by far, the most recognizable Sydney landmark. The iconic building took 14 years to complete (1959-1973) and stands today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The massive staircase – nearly 100-meters-wide – leads to the entrance, but we recommend staying on the ground level and completely circling the structure to gain perspective before climbing the stairs.

Two halls of ‘stacked shells’ make up the award-winning structure that features amazing acoustics. The theaters inside (of which there are multiple) have hosted world-known musical and theatrical talents.

The facilities can be toured (for a fee), but it’s free to walk around the exterior of the building. Walking along the west side of the Sydney Opera House, visitors can see and touch the tiles (which alone took three years to develop) that give the building it’s sailboat appearance.

Find out more information about visiting the Sydney Opera House and tour options . 

From the Sydney Opera House, leave Circular Quay (don’t worry, we return later to see other Sydney Harbour attractions, including the bridge and The Rocks). Walk through the gates to the east, then follow the path south to the raised grassy area of The Domain

The Domain and Surrounding Sights

Originally used as a small farm for the penal colony, today the Domain comprises the expansive green space to the east of the Sydney city center. Paths crisscross through the park that are used for recreation and relaxation. Many historic government buildings and the Royal Botanic Gardens are found in or near the Domain.

Continue following the path to the south to the Government House.

#3 Government House

MAP . Built in the Gothic Revival style in the 1840s, the Government House is the vice-regal residence of the New South Wales’ Governor. The grand interior is open to visitors , as is the garden, which provides stunning views of the harbor and Sydney Opera House.

Note: If the Government House is closed for official business, visitors can take in the view from Tarpeian Precinct – a small elevated park between the Government House and the Opera House. 

From the Government House, walk southwest into the Domain to the Royal Botanic Garden.

#4 Royal Botanic Gardens

MAP . Established in 1816, the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens feature an array of plant life. Free for visitors to stroll and admire, the park also offers a range of programs and tours.

From the Royal Botanic Gardens, continue your Sydney city sightseeing tour and walk northeast to the point to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

#5 Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair

MAP . Hand-carved by convicts in 1810, the stone bench – now known as Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair – was a gift to the wife of the New South Wales governor. The viewpoint of the harbor – and especially of the Opera House and Bridge – makes it one of our favorite spots in all of Sydney.

From Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, follow the walking path along the eastern shoreline to Woolloomooloo.

#6 Woolloomooloo and Finger Wharf

MAP . The Sydney inner-city suburb of Woolloomooloo developed as a working-class neighborhood around the bay of the same name. Extending into Woolloomooloo Bay is Finger Wharf, the longest wooden-piled wharf in the world, measuring 1,345-feet-long.

The wharf was built in 1915 and used for 70 years as a busy shipping center. It fell to disuse in the 1970s, but has been completely revitalized with an upscale hotel/housing/restaurant complex.

On the southern shoreline of Woolloomooloo Bay, find Harry’s Café de Wheels and stop for an iconic Sydney snack. 

#7 Harry’s Café de Wheels

MAP . A Sydney institution, Harry’s Café de Wheels has been serving ‘Pie ‘n Peas’ since the late 1930s and is claimed to be Sydney’s best pie. Although not an original location, the restaurant displays old-time photos that show the history of Harry’s.

If you are hungry, we recommend ordering a beef pie tiger-style. The three-inch, piping-hot beef pie is topped with mushy peas, mashed potatoes and gravy. The inexpensive pie can serve as lunch or a mid-morning snack.

From Harry’s Café de Wheels, walk west on Cowper Wharf Road to the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

#8 Art Gallery of New South Wales

MAP . Opened in 1874, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of the largest galleries in Australia. The Art Gallery exhibitions – which are free to the public – include a range of art, including works from Australian and European masters, as well as entire galleries dedicated to Aboriginal and Asian works. 

From the Art Gallery of New South Wales walk northwest across the park to Shakespeare Place and Macquarie Street. Continue the Sydney city sights tour and stroll south past the historic government buildings.

Historic Government Buildings in Sydney

Not to be missed on your walking tour of Sydney are some of the top historic buildings of government.

#9 State Library of New South Wales

MAP . Established in 1826, the State Library of New South Wales – or Mitchell Library – is the oldest library in Australia. The building dates to the early 1900s and is open to the public (also in case you’re looking for a toilet!).

Next to the library, to the south, is the Parliament building.

#10 Parliament of New South Wales

MAP . The New South Wales legislature offices and chambers are housed in a complex on Macquarie Street.

Although the structure was expanded and renovated over the years, the historic Parliament House dates to the early 1800s. The unassuming structure was originally part of a hospital, but the space was converted to Parliament chambers in 1829.

Today, visitors can take a tour, visit the art exhibitions or enjoy high tea in the on site restaurant. 

Next to the Parliament building, to the south, is the Old Sydney Hospital.

#11 Old Sydney Hospital

MAP . Nicknamed the Rum Hospital because profits from rum sales were used to fund the building, the Sydney Hospital is the oldest public building in the city. Built in 1811, the structure is still used as a hospital today, specializing in ophthalmology and hand surgery.

The bronze boar, Il Porcellino, that sits outside is said to bring you good luck if you rub its snout. Also, it’s worth peeking into the courtyard to see the tiered Robert Brough Memorial Fountain. 

Next to the Old Sydney Hospital, to the south, is the The Mint.

#12 The Mint

MAP . Originally built as a wing of the historic Sydney Hospital in the 1800s, the Sydney Royal Mint occupied the building from 1855 until 1926. The coining factory was the first outside of England.

Since the mint closed, the structure has been used by several NSW government entities and today is the office of the Historic Houses Trust of New South Wales. Additional Mint Info .  

Continue walking south into Hyde Park.

#13 Hyde Park

MAP . Since the first European settlers arrived in Australia, the park was used as a recreational space. However, it was in 1810 that Governor Macquarie dedicated the space as Hyde Park (naming it after Hyde Park in London ).

The green space has been used as a Cricket Ground, a horse racetrack, an outdoor boxing ring, a rugby field and military exercise grounds. At the north end of Hyde Park is Archibald Fountain, which celebrates the relationship between France and Australia during World War I.

East of Archibald Fountain, continue the free city walk of Sydney to St. Mary’s Cathedral.

#14 St. Mary’s Cathedral

MAP . The grand façade of St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral in Sydney features two Gothic spires. The towers stand at 245 feet – and make St. Mary’s one of the tallest churches in Australia.

Building commenced in 1868 after previous churches on the site were destroyed by fire. In 2008, Pope Benedict XVI visited St. Mary’s for World Youth Day.

South of St. Mary’s Cathedral is the Australian Museum.

#15 Australian Museum

MAP . Opened in 1857, the Australian Museum is actually the oldest museum in Australia. The collections are comprised of zoological and anthropological displays. Buy Advance Tickets .  

Re-enter Hyde Park and walk to the southern end where you will find the ANZAC War Memorial.

#16 ANZAC War Memorial

MAP . At the south end of Hyde Park is Sydney’s ANZAC Memorial. Opened in 1934 to remember the Australians who fought and died in World War I (the Great War), the memorial now stands to honor all Australians and New Zealanders who have served in military forces.

From the ANZAC War Memorial, walk north to Park Street. Go west on park and walk in centre Sydney to Sydney Town Hall.

#17 Sydney Town Hall

MAP . Easily recognizable by its clock tower and grand staircase, the centrally-located Sydney Town Hall is a popular meeting place for locals.

Built on former burial grounds in the late 1880s, the town hall is home to the Sydney City Council Chamber, the offices of the Lord Mayor and the Centennial Hall. The concert hall features the Grand Organ, which dates to the late 1800s.

Just north of Sydney Town Hall is the Queen Victoria Building.

#18 Queen Victoria Building

MAP . Filling an entire city block along George Street, the Queen Victoria Building – or QVB, for short – was built between 1893 and 1898. The landmark Victorian-Federation era arcade, which features multiple domes, is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.

The spacious interiors include four floors of retail space, cast-iron railings, original tile work and two clocks: The Royal Clock and the Great Australian Clock. At the south entrance is a large statue of Queen Victoria.

From the north end of QVB, walk east on Market Street to the Sydney Tower. 

#19 Sydney Tower

MAP . A popular tourist attraction since it was completed in 1981, the Sydney Tower stands at 1,014 feet in the center of the city. The tower features dining options, event space and an observation deck, called the Sydney Tower Eye.

Located at 820 feet, the enclosed viewing deck provides 360-degree views of Sydney. Take the fast track to the observation deck with advance tickets ! 

Walk west on Market Street to Kent Street. Walk south on Kent to Liverpool Street. Walk west and pass Dixon Street for the moment and climb the stairs to the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Then, retrace your steps on Liverpool Street to Dixon and walk south through Chinatown.

#20 Chinese Garden of Friendship

MAP . The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a traditional Chinese garden in Sydney’s Central Business District. The gardens, which were designed by sister city, Guangzhou, represent the bond between Australia and China.

#21 Chinatown

MAP . A significant Chinese population has lived in the city since the 1800s, but the current Sydney Chinatown was established in the 1920.

The most decorative part of Chinatown lies along the short, pedestrian-only street, Dixon Street, and features ornate Chinese gates, shops and eateries.

Continue walking south on Dixon Street to Paddy’s Market.

#22 Paddy’s Market

MAP . Housed inside an enormous brick building near Chinatown, Paddy’s Market has wall-to-wall stalls hawking everything from junk souvenirs (most featuring koalas, kangaroos, boomerangs and anything with “I heart Sydney” on it) to purses, wigs and costumes – all priced to sell. A few places at Paddy’s Market peddle brand name clothes that may or may not be authentic.

It’s easy to get lost in the maze of booths, each aisle looks identical to the previous. A fun Sydney shopping experience and a feast for the senses, the Paddy Market is worth a look.

If you have worked up a hunger – and were not tempted by any of the Chinese restaurants – detour to the Sydney Fish Market. You can follow these directions on Google Maps . If you choose to skip the Fish Market, follow these directions from Paddy’s Market to Pyrmont Bay.

#23 Sydney Fish Market

MAP . The Sydney Fish Market takes it up a notch on the sensory overload scale. The pungent scent of gutted fish wafts through the air at every turn – yet, the Sydney Fish Market is actually more civilized than Paddy’s Market.

The market only has a handful of vendors – but a seemingly endless choice of seafood. Fresh caught fish, prawns, oysters and live crabs are appealingly displayed on ice. Less appealing options of salmon fish heads and slimy octopus are also for sale.

The food court stalls sell everything from fried fish to sashimi, which can be eaten inside or under umbrellas on the docks. Read more about the Sydney Fish Market . 

From Sydney Fish Market, make your way to Pyrmont Bay using these Google Maps directions.

#24 Pyrmont Bay at Darling Harbour

MAP . A top Sydney entertainment district, Darling Harbour is a hub of activity. In addition to the many waterfront bars and restaurants, visitors will find popular Sydney tourist attractions such as the Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum and Madame Tussauds.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

One of the popular Sydney family attractions, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium provides a home to more than 13,000 sea creatures. The aquarium displays are sectioned into themes, including the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef exhibit. Buy Your SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets now !  

Australian National Maritime Museum

Explore the educational and interactive Australian National Maritime Museum to learn about life along the coast. Visitors can board in-water vessels, including the HMAS Onslow submarine and the HMAS Vampire battleship. Buy advance tickets.    

Madame Tussauds Sydney

Walk the red carpet and meet your favorite celebrities…kind of. Get up close and personal with the lifelike wax figures for epic selfies and photo ops. Get your tickets early !

#25 Sydney Harbour Tours from Pyrmont Bay Ferry Wharf

MAP . Many public ferries and Sydney Harbour tours depart from Darling Harbour. Hopping on a boat is a phenomenal way to get a better vantage point on your one-day tour of Sydney, Australia.

Get a seat in the bow as you sail beneath the famed Sydney Harbour Bridge and cruise past the Sydney Opera House.

Take the public ferry that departs Pyrmont Bay Ferry Wharf and ride to Circular Quay. When you arrive back at the Sydney docks, walk Circular Quay to the west into The Rocks District. 

#26 The Rocks, Sydney

MAP . The Rocks has a storied past, as the land was first settled by Aboriginal People – there is evidence of their presence dating to the 1400s.

By the late 1700s, the area had become home to convicts sent from England. In the mid-1800s, The Rocks had grown into a port city full of debauchery. Then, in 1900, the plague broke out and The Rocks fell to the slums. An aggressive government cleansing ensued and many historic homes were destroyed.

In the 1970s, Sydney residents took a stand against the destruction and fought to keep their community. Today, throughout the Rocks district, several historic Sydney buildings are preserved, including Cadmans Cottage House, Sailor’s Home and the Mercantile Hotel.

New buildings have also risen in The Rocks, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is free to enter. 

Another museum to visit is The Rocks Discovery Museum, which details the history of the district and of Sydney. Free to enter, the museum is housed in an 1850s building. Full of artifacts and stories dating back to the Gadigal people, the museum chronicles the events of The Rocks.

For even more information, read this detailed Sydney Rocks Walking Tour (which includes The Rocks Sydney Walking Map). 

From the Rocks Discovery Museum, walk south on Kendall Lane to Argyle Street. Walk west on Argyle under the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the stairs on the south side of the street that lead to…

#27 Sydney Observatory Hill Park

MAP . The Sydney Observatory was built on this hill in 1858. The popular hillside park features stunning panoramic vistas of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, North Sydney, Miller’s Point and Darling Harbour.

On the east side of the park, find the stairs that lead to the pedestrian path on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

#28 Sydney Harbour Bridge

MAP . The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world and an iconic Sydney landmark. Taking almost 10 years to construct, the bridge opened in 1932.

Nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its long arch, the steel bridge is used by trains, cars, bikes and pedestrians. The total length of the bridge is 3,770 feet. Two pylons stand at each end of the bridge at a height of 292 feet.

There are pedestrian paths on the famous bridge that allow visitors to cross it and take in the views – for free! 

#29 Harbour Bridge Pylon

MAP . Using the pedestrian walkway on the east side of the bridge, walk to the Pylon. The first pylon is open to visitors (for a fee) and guests are invited to climb 200 stairs for 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour.

If you want to bypass the climb (and the fee), just walk along the Sydney bridge’s pedestrian path for free. There is a safety fence that, while partially hindering the view, makes it safe to cross. 

BONUS: BridgeClimb Sydney

Thrill-seekers might want to consider the BridgeClimb, where participants are led on an expedition to the top of the Harbour Bridge’s arch. Find out more about the epic Sydney Bridge Climb .

#30 The Rocks for Evening Entertainment

End your Sydney sights walking tour back in The Rocks for dinner and drinks. Of the numerous bars and restaurants, we have a few recommendations. 

• Squire’s Landing – Modern brewpub on the harbor with views of both the Sydney Opera House and the Habour Bridge.
• The Glenmore Hotel – Classic Australian pub with rooftop views of the Sydney Opera House.
• Fortune of War – Claiming to be the oldest pub in Sydney, they have been slinging beers since 1828.
• Lord Nelson Brewery – Operating as a hotel and pub since 1841 (and as a brewery since 1987), the classic Aussie pub has a good selection of local beer on tap.

Looking for some of the Best Australian Craft Beer? Read our article about a Craft Beer Walking Tour of Sydney !

Sydney Walks Map

When visiting Sydney sights, use this link to Google Maps for an online, interactive version of our Sydney Walking Tour Map of Attractions.

More Sydney Sightseeing Tours

Although we think our walk is one of the best Sydney tours, it might not be for everyone. We have a few suggestions if our Sydney tour isn’t for you.

Sydney Harbour Walks

If our outlined Sydney in a Day Tour involves too much walking, perhaps a Sydney Harbour Walk will suit you better. Walks around Sydney Harbour include the most iconic landmarks in the city.

While travelers could easily wander the harbor, we think it is best to have a sightseeing plan. Therefore, we created a simple Self Guided Tour Sydney Harbor to help you find your way. 

Self Guided Walking Tour Sydney Harbour

Walk the coastline from Circular Quay to The Rocks. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and The Rocks Discovery Museum. Walk to the Sydney Observatory, then up the stairs to the pedestrian walkway on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 

Next, retrace your steps to Circular Quay and proceed to the Sydney Opera House. Continue walking east along the shoreline path to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

Find all these sights on our Sydney Harbour Walks map .

Guided Sightseeing Tours Sydney, Australia

If navigating the city sounds like too much of a hassle or you want to hear stories and history from a Sydney local tour guide, consider booking one of the Sydney group tours or Sydney private day tours. Here are just a few of the top guided and themed walking tours in Sydney.

3-Hour Guided Tour

See the highlights of Sydney on a guided tour. Rather than a Sydney City Walking Tour, this guided sightseeing tour is completed with a vehicle – allowing visitors to see more of the city in less time.  Get the details!

Aboriginal Tours Sydney

One of the in-depth Guided Walking Tours of Sydney, participants learn about the Aboriginal People and their history in Sydney. Along the way, the tour guide leads the small group through the Royal Botanical Gardens and Circular Quay – explaining the significance of the Sydney sights along the route. Find out more!    

Sydney History Tours of The Rocks

On a Rocks Walking Tour Sydney, Australia, guests get to discover the colonial past on one of the best historical tours of Sydney. Led by a historian, The Rocks Guided Walking Tour of Sydney, Australia is both captivating and entertaining. Learn more about this tour!  

Pro Tip: Is The Rocks Sydney Walking Tour that we highlight not the right tour of you? There are many guided tours delve into Sydney’s past in The Rocks. Whether you are looking for a private tour or a pub tour in The Rocks. Book it in advance !

Free Guided Tour Sydney

While our free Sydney tour allows you to go at your own pace, there are free walking tours in Sydney where a guide leads the way. On a Guided Sydney Free Walking Tour, participants are led to the top sights by local guides. 

Just bear in mind, however, that the guides of the Guided Free Sydney Walking Tour work for tips. If you are searching for a completely free tour, we recommend using our above Self Guided Sydney Free Tour. 

Money Saving Sydney Attraction Pass

If you are planning on visiting attractions, a Sydney tourist pass can save you money. Rather than buying individual Sydney attraction tickets, you can pay one fee for a Sydney sightseeing pass that allows entry into multiple sights.

Check out the Ultimate Sydney Pass , where you pay a flat fee for a specific number of sights. Some of the top Sydney tours and attractions included with the card are the Sydney Opera House Tour, Madame Tussauds, the SEA LIFE Aquarium, the Museums Pass, The Rocks walking tour and the Sydney Tower Eye.

What You Need For Your Sydney Walking Tour

Before setting off on your Walking Tour Sydney CBD route, you will want to be prepared!

Shoes for Travel

Sydney is a walkable city…but only if you pack the right travel shoes ! Your shoes should be comfortable, lightweight and versatile – like these shoes by Columbia  and  Skechers . Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell .

Appropriate Weather Gear

If the sun is shining for your Sydney Walking Tour – and it likely will be – then you will need proper sun protection. Make sure to use sunscreen – and it’s also smart to have a travel hat that shades your face, as well as your favorite sunglasses . 

Furthermore, it is a smart idea to bring a refillable water bottle for Self Guided Walking Tours Sydney. 

Of course, if rain is predicted, then don’t forget to bring a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella for your city tour. 

Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip – Sydney is so photogenic! Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos. We always travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens . 

The Canon DSLR camera is easy to use, comes with heaps of accessories and takes high quality photos – all of which makes it one of the best budget cameras for travelers .

Sydney Map and Australia Guidebook

We think it is much easier to complete a Self Guided Free Sydney Walking Tour when you have a good understanding of the layout of the city. Therefore, we recommend purchasing a  city map and/or guidebook before arriving in Australia.

A Durable Day Pack

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll want to be sure to have a great day pack to carry all your essential travel items in!

We carry small day packs when we tour cities on self guided walks – as they are comfortable to wear, have zippered pockets to keep our contents safe and are roomy enough to stow everything we need for the day. 

Australia Travel Insurance

Trip Insurance can come in handy when things go wrong – like lost luggage or getting sick abroad . 

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Australia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Sydney Trip Planning Advice

Planning a trip to Sydney, Australia is a big task! There are so many things to do in Sydney – and many overseas travelers plan on visiting multiple cities in Australia, as well. Our free, detailed Sydney guides can help you plan the best trip possible. 

• How To Plan 3 Perfect Days in Sydney
• Going on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
• Setting off on the Spit to Manly Nature Trail
• How To Plan a Blue Mountains Day Trip

Visiting other Top Destinations in Australia?

Good on ya! Get ready with our complete guides and insider tips for the best Australia destinations! 

• Best Things To Do in Melbourne
• Fun Brisbane Activities
• Free Things To Do in Cairns
• What To Do in Coollangatta on the Gold Coast
• How To Visit Perth in One Day

Trip Organization

As you start planning your trip and making reservations, organization is key! Get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Australia using our Trip Planning Printables !

Start planning your trip to Australia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

We want to know:  Are there any sights you would add to our self-guided Sydney walking tour? What are your must-see Sydney landmarks? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below! 

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Free Tours Sydney - Bus and Walking Tours

Joining Free Tours Sydney should be the first thing you do in Sydney.

They offer two different tours - free walking tour Sydney and the fee-paying Sydney Sightseeing bus tour. Walking and bus tours complement each other by covering different sights of Sydney.

Free walking tour explores the historical centre of Sydney and the Rocks.

The bus tour will take you to the famous Bondi Beach, Watsons Bay, Kings Cross, Rose Bay and many other places.

Within three hours you will visit the best sights with many stops for pictures along the way.

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