Australia
Urban jungle Sydney
I’d arrived late the night before, so this was my first full day, jetlagged but ready to explore. I’d been to Sydney on a previous trip, so this time it was just a short stop before hitting the road. Sydney is one of those cities you could spend endless days in, walking around and always finding something new. For me, it was about revisiting a few favourite spots and discovering a couple of new ones before starting the drive north.
Daytrip to Manly: beaches, boardwalks & rockpools
A little escape from Sydney is a trip to Manly. The ferry ride over from Circular Quay is very easy. Not only do you get an incredible view of the harbour and the Opera House from the water, but it also immediately puts you in holiday mode. Once you arrive, there’s Manly Beach, where you can either try your hand at surfing or just enjoy some serious surfer spotting from the sand. Between the beach and the ferry, The Corso is full of little shops, cafés, and ice cream spots. Check out Bánh Mì Plenty for lunch, which has actually won an award for their sandwiches. A bit further along the coast, I made a stop at the Freshwater Rockpools, which is a peaceful, protected swimming spot carved into the rocks, perfect for a dip. And for a nice coastal walk, the Curl Curl Boardwalk is a must.
Sunset over Sydney at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Remember, I loved this spot back in 2023, and this year (2025) I immediately knew where I wanted to watch the sunset over Sydney. Look for Mrs Macquarie’s Chair on Google Maps, and go just before sunset. The views over Sydney Harbour here are something else. On your way, you can walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and pass the Harbour View Lawn, both beautiful spots in themselves. I didn’t make it all the way to the actual chair, but just before the bend in the path, there are little “seats” carved into the sandstone rocks, perfect to sit down, relax, and watch the sun go down behind the skyline. People stroll by, joggers pass, and somehow it still feels peaceful despite being right in the city.
Blue hour at Sydney's Opera House
Even if you don’t have tickets for a show, the Opera House is worth a visit. The whole building lights up beautifully, and from the steps you’ve got one of the best views over the harbour. You can also grab a spot at Opera Bar, right at the water’s edge. Perfect for a glass of wine and some nibbles while the sun sets behind the Harbour Bridge. If you’re after something more special, there’s also Bennelong Restaurant, tucked inside one of the shells.
