While we adore our beachy home base on the Gold Coast, we also love taking the occasional trip to other areas of Australia to appreciate the country's natural beauty, visit friends, revisit some of our favourite neighbourhoods and explore new areas. 

The oldest, largest and most populous city in Australia, Sydney is packed full of charm, with seemingly endless beauty everywhere you look. Today we're offering our top tips for what to see, do and wear while travelling in Sydney, and feel free to add to the list in the comment section below!

Sydney Style & Travel Guide

While it's easy to fall into the typical tourist trap in such a famous city, rest assured that while crowded, iconic locations like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are still worth the visit and a memorable experience, especially if it's your first time in Sydney. However, it's also equally as easy to get off the beaten path to discover more of what makes this worldly location a traveller's paradise.

Things to Do in Sydney

See a Show at the Sydney Opera House

If you have the chance, attending a show at the Opera House is a total must. Have a pre-show cocktail with a view at the Opera Bar, and admire the architecture from inside for a totally new perspective. 

If you happen to be in Sydney for the annual light festival, Vivid (May-June), it's also the perfect time to see a whole new side of the Opera House as well as enjoy several unique light displays, music performances and innovative conferences around the city.

Luna Park

Hop on a ferry from Darling Harbour and take in the magnificent views on the short ride to Luna Park, a historic theme park that's been entertaining locals and visitors since 1935. Ride the ferris wheel, grab some fairy floss, and spend a sunny afternoon having fun with friends and family.

Pictured: Soul Searcher Sandals

Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk

Perhaps Australia's most famous beach, Bondi Beach has gorgeous white sand and turquoise water, and is the perfect place for surfing, skating, swimming and sunbathing. 

Take a dip in the 'insta-famous' pool at the Bondi Icebergs Club, or head upstairs for a scenic beer and meal at the onsite bar and restaurant.

Pictured: Gypset Wallets

Finally, walk south along the coastal walkway to Bronte Beach for an unparalleled view of the dramatic natural surroundings.

Royal Botanic Garden & The Art Gallery NSW

When the weather is nice, there's nothing lovelier than walking around Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden. With beautifully landscaped flora and fauna and a convenient location in the heart of the city, we highly recommend taking a walk around before appreciating artwork at the nearby Art Gallery NSW.

Pictured: Sahara Wallet

Where to Eat & Drink in Sydney

Gertrude & Alice Cafe Bookstore, Bondi Beach

Located conveniently near Bondi Beach, the oh so charming Gertrude & Alice Bookstore also serves up some seriously amazing brekkie treats. Head here to sip on a flat white and people watch, and be sure to browse their bookstore for a true Sydney souvenir. 

The Winery, Surry Hills

Not only are Surry Hills and Darlinghurst worth a visit in their own right - think funky boutique shops, cute mom and pop restaurants, and unique record stores - but The Winery is one of the most beautiful bars we've seen anywhere, with cocktails to match!

Pictured: Catalina Maxi, Dream Weaver Bag, Dreamer Leather Boots, Vida Leather Wallet

Frankie's Pizza, CBD

Delicious pizza, arcade games, rocking music and cold beer. Need we say more? Frankie's Pizza is a Sydney staple and definitely worth the wait it may or may not require to get in. 

Spice Alley, Chippendale 

Located on Kensington Street, Spice Alley offers an assortment of six Asian food eateries. Grab a seat under the glowing lanterns and enjoy this delectable foodie's paradise.

Pictured: Demelza Dress, Coachella Festival Bag, Lonestar Leather Boots

Shady Pines Saloon, Darlinghurst

Find the unmarked door to enter this hidden cowboy-themed gem in Darlinghurst and thank us later. With a killer craft cocktail menu, sexy lighting and live tunes on Sundays, you can't go wrong at the Shady Pines Saloon. 

Thanks so much for reading our guide to sightseeing and styling in Sydney, and we hope it gave you some ideas for your next trip down under!