According to the Australian tourism industry, Sydney is the most visited city in Australia. There’s much to do and see for everyone in the family – amazing entertainment options, nightlife, fabulous sights and food. Here is a list of free things to do in Sydney with your family (and a couple of budget-friendly options).
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Free things to do in Sydney: explore Star City Casino
Even if you’re not into gambling, the Star City Casino is worth exploring. Sit at one of the free bars inside and watch people lose money hand over fist.
Free things to do in Sydney: Walk the famous Bondi Beach to Coogee
For the most impressive coastal views you ever saw, this is a must-take 6-kilometre long walk. Start at the southern end of Bondi Beach, take plenty of pics, picnic, laze around and dip in the azure blue waters of Coogee at the end.
Free things to do in Sydney: explore Sydney’s Harbour
Exploring Sydney‘s harbour will take you more than a day or two. So don’t forget to walk the Harbour Bridge, do check out the Opera House, and stroll the 26 kilometres of enchanting loops in Sydney’s Harbour Circle Walk.
Free things to do in Sydney: visit the Royal Botanic Gardens
These Gardens are an excellent opportunity to experience over 45,000 plant specimens from all over the world. Plus, you get an eyeful of rare wildlife too, such as flying foxes, possums and a multitude of colourful birds.
Free things to do in Sydney: Explore the Darling Harbour area
On Darling Harbour, you’ll find the Chinese Gardens and the Sydney Aquarium, apart from several other must-see attractions. A great place with plenty of free entertainment options for the entire family.
If you thought the Great Barrier Reef was impressive, wait until you see the Sydney Aquarium. It is home to over 11,000 aquatic animals and has more than 650 different species on display. It might seem pricey for the whole family, but it’s definitely worth visiting.
Free things to do in Sydney: visit the Australian National Maritime Museum
The Australian National Maritime Museum houses 14 old ships and 40,000 maritime objects such as antique sextants, compasses, and wheels. Also, don’t forget to check out the naval destroyer HMAS Vampire.
Free things to do in Sydney: admire the art exhibits in the NSW Art Gallery
What better way to instruct your family in art than to visit Australia’s top arty gallery? The NSW Art Gallery hosts artworks by European, Asian, Australian and Aboriginal artists, including works by Picasso and Charles Conder.
Free things to do in Sydney: hike the picturesque route from Manly to Spit Bridge
The best way to experience the diverse ecosystem of this region is to take the Manly Scenic Walkway. On this 4-hour walk, you’ll see subtropical rainforests and beaches, including the Manly and Clontarf and Crater Cove.
Free things to do in Sydney: go on a picture-taking contest on the Circular Quay
Visit the Circular Quay between the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge for the most incredible views and pics. With multiple ferries, walkways and Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art, there’s much to do here.
Free things to do in Sydney: explore Olympic Park
Explore the 430 hectares of walks, sports arenas, parks and wooden boardwalks. Watch out for an exciting 180 species of rare birds. Visit the NSW Hall of Champions, a place of tribute to 300 famous Australian athletes.
Free things to do in Sydney: check out the historic sites at the Rocks
Take pictures of the famous historical sites, both colonial and pre-colonial. Next, visit the weekly market and picnic in this historical area. Then, enter the Rocks Discovery Museum to view the interactive historical exhibits.
Free things to do in Sydney: a picnic at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Grab a hamper and get to the especially hand-carved sandstone chair made for the Governor’s wife in the early 1800s. Enjoy dramatic views of the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the fabulous Sydney skyline.
Free things to do in Sydney: get to Hyde Park for a game of giant chess!
How about playing a game of chess using giant pawns and kings? Visit Hyde Park and pit your chess wits against visiting masters. Visit the Anzac War Memorial and the enchanting Archibald Fountain when you’re tired of chess.
Free things to do in Sydney: join free Trivia contests
If you love quizzes, go to one of Sydney’s free trivia nights and win some cash prizes. Toxteth in Glebe, Paddington’s Bellevue Hotel and Trinity in Surry Hills, apart from the trivia nights in many Sydney pubs.
Free things to do in Sydney: explore the Sydney Opera House
Take your family for a close-up look-see at one of the most unique buildings ever constructed. Picnic on the grass next to the Opera House and climb 184 stairs to the front if you can. Grab a drink at Sydney Opera Bar just below.
Free things to do in Sydney: take your family to beautiful beaches
With its 37 sandy stretches, including the world-famous Bondi Beach, Sydney offers you the best beach life you can enjoy. Also, Bronte, Coogee, Cronulla, and Manly beaches are all unique and beautiful in their own ways. Each offers different activities for the whole family. Swim, stroll around and enjoy water sports. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Low budget options to explore in Sydney
- enjoy great bargains at China Town: Fight for great bargains at Paddy’s Markets in China Town. Enjoy a close-up look at one of the most influential cultures in Australia. China Town is a unique experience, especially in the evenings with bright lanterns.
- visit some weekend markets: Don’t miss Sydney’s weekend markets for handmade Australian crafts, jewellery, artwork, clothing and great food. Visit one of these markets – Paddington, Glebe, Balmain, Bondi and Fox Studios.
These are only some of the many free things you can do in Sydney. The city offers many activities that are budget-friendly or entirely free. Either way, have fun!
