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|Updated on November,11,2024|

The Ultimate Sydney Travel Guide: Australia on a Budget is all you need to plan your first budget trip to this beautiful city. I always wanted to visit Sydney after learning about it from school books, but since it is so far away, it seemed like an unreachable destination to me. However, all dreams should come true, so I decided it was time to go when they lifted all COVID restrictions and it was my birthday month. I thought, why not make it a great gift to myself?

 

If you have never been to this city, you need to be aware of the high ticket prices, which are unlikely to go down. However, you can still see Sydney on a budget if you follow the tips I mentioned above.

 

The cheapest price I could find was $1000 from LA with Fiji Airlines with a layover in Nada. I got so excited as I was saving $300-400 for my tickets. So tickets were bought and I was ready to fly soon, but I learned a couple of days before that they still had some COVID restrictions and I was not qualified for flying, so I had to figure out another plan and buy new tickets 2 days before my trip, which cost me a bit more, but it was worth it. I bought new tickets with United and this time was finally ready for my trip.

 

So do not forget to triple-check the country requirements you are flying to or if you have a layover somewhere else.

 

Read more about the cost of travel to Sydney, Australia, the best Sydney tips, and more.

 

What to Do Before Going to Sydney

1. Check visa requirements
2. Get a SIM card
3. Book all activities in advance (such as tours, opera performances, etc) as everything is sold out very quickly
4. Bring sunscreen with a high SPF coverage
5. Take the adapter
6. Bring the lock for your lockers if you are staying in a hostel
7. Bring a wireless CC card so you can use it on the transport instead of buying the transport Opal card
8. Bring a hat and sunglasses
9. Buy travel insurance

Did you know that they drive on the left side and not the right side of the road as you used to? :).

The Ultimate Sydney Travel Guide: Australia on a Budget

How to Navigate Around Sydney

Sydney has a comprehensive transportation system, offering buses, trams, metro trains, and ferries to almost any destination you need to reach. Each mode of transport has its pricing structure, so it’s helpful to learn more about the costs associated with each type of travel.

 

For instance, buses and trams typically charge based on distance, while metro and ferry fares can vary depending on the zones traveled. Understanding these options can help you plan your trips more efficiently and budget effectively.

Read more about public transport in Sydney, here.

Where to Stay in Sydney

Here is the list of the best neighborhoods in Sydney

City Center (CBD): Sydney CBD is a very popular area in Sydney where you can find a lot of restaurants, cafes, stores, and more. The center is also very walkable, but if you need to use transport you can easily find it there as well.

 

Paddington: Paddington is a pretty suburb where you can see the jacaranda trees’ purple flowers bloom if you visit in October or November. Paddington also offers a perfect choice of boutiques, shops, cafes, and bars. Oxford Street offers the best shopping. Don’t skip the Paddington Markets on Saturday mornings where you can find various products from locals!

 

Darling Harbour: Just within a short walking distance from the center you can have the water dining experience, explore scenic views, have a cultural experience, the aquarium, Madame Tussauds, and more. It has all to offer for every taste and budget.

 

The Rocks: Home to the amazing Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Rocks can’t be missed. The Rocks is the oldest surviving neighborhood in Sydney. At the Rocks, you can find cute old pubs and cafes, weekend markets, enjoy contemporary art, and cute narrow streets, and buildings.

 

Kings Cross: Known as a “Red Light District”, offers a host of activities and attractions, including lively bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

 

For budget travelers the best option is hostels. They tend to be a bit cheaper and more fun actually. There are many hostels in Sydney located in good neighborhoods that offer good perks, but they need to be booked in advance. I stayed at Wake Up Sydney. This hostel is located in a nice area that is very safe and walkable. Lots of places to eat near, grocery stores, etc. So my stay was pretty good.

 

Some other hostel options for you are:

1.The Pacific House

2.Sydney Harbour YHA

3.The Downing Hostel

 

Prefer to stay in hotels, here are some recommendations as well:

1. Radisson Blue Plaza Sydney

2. A by Adina Sydney

3. Little national hotel

Best Things to Do in Sydney

1. Explore the CBD area

Central Sydney is the city’s primary commercial hub and a vibrant historic area with a bustling atmosphere. This part of Sydney is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, shopping venues, and popular sightseeing spots, making it a lively and dynamic place to explore.

2. See a Sydney Opera Performance and/or Take an Opera Tour

3. Walk on the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Enjoy the 1.5 km walk offering panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, Circular Quay, the Opera House, and Kirribilli. Be aware that the wind can be quite strong and the traffic noise can be loud, but don’t let that deter you. For a change of pace, take a quick 10-15 minute ferry ride back to the Bay.

4. Join a Free Walking Tour in Sydney

5. Wander Around the Queen Victoria Building and Check the Mall Itself

This iconic landmark occupies an entire block of George Street and features a stunning five-level boutique shopping center in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Built in the late 19th century, the QVB is known for its beautiful architecture, including intricate stained glass windows and a grand dome. Inside, you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques, unique stores, and a variety of dining options. Don’t forget to look up and admire the building’s ornate details while you shop.

6. Go for a Walk on Bondi Beach

 

Take a stroll along the coastline to explore Sydney’s beautiful beaches and catch some sun. All of Sydney’s beaches are easily accessible via public transportation or by car, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. There’s also a coastal walk that connects many of the beaches, offering scenic views along the way.

 

On weekends, beaches can get quite crowded, so visiting during the week is a great way to avoid the crowds. Some of the most popular beaches to check out include Coogee, Bondi (the most famous), Dee Why, Manly, Bronte, and Palm Beach.

7. Enjoy Night Views at Circular Quay or a Drink at the Opera Bar With Live Music and DJs

Relax with a drink at the iconic Opera Bar, with live music and DJs setting the mood against the stunning backdrop of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It’s a great spot to enjoy Sydney’s energy under the night sky.

8. Like Attractions? Check Sydney Luna Park

Luna Park is located on the water near the Harbour Bridge and is considered the most iconic amusement park & tourist destination. It is easily accessible by ferry as the station is located right there.

9. Take a Ferry Ride and Enjoy the Water View

You can take a ferry to almost any destination. From the main hub of Circular Quay to west up the Parramatta River, north to Manly, and farther east to Watsons Bay. A one-way ticket will cost you a minimum of $7, depending on the distance.

10. Want to see the best view of Sydney from above?

Head to the iconic 83rd-floor bar in Sydney Tower Eye, where you can enjoy panoramic city views while sipping on your favorite drink.

11. Take a Swim at Bronte Baths

Don’t miss the chance to swim in the famous Bronte Baths, situated right on Bronte Beach. These ocean-fed pools offer a unique swimming experience with stunning sea views. Entrance is free, which makes it a popular spot and can get quite crowded during the day. If you prefer a quieter time, visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon might be a good idea.

12. Go to the Sydney Observatory Hill to See a Beautiful View of the Harbor

Perfect spot for selfies, a romantic date, some alone time, watching the sunset, having a picnic, or just enjoying the beautiful city views.

13. Want to Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables? or Buy Local Crafts?

Sydney offers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit the farmers’ markets to find delicious natural sweets and get the best deals on your favorite items.

14. See the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains are renowned for their breathtaking scenery, including cliffs, stunning eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls. The area is also home to several weekend markets offering fresh food, flowers, vegetables, and local crafts. Notable markets include the Carriage Farmers Market, Kirribilli Art, Design, and Fashion Market, The Rocks Market, and Paddington Market.

 

15. Visit the Rocks

Explore the historic neighborhood of the Rocks, where you can enjoy a scenic walk, discover excellent shopping and dining options, and take in beautiful views along the way.

 

Related article:

|Best places to stay in Sydney

What to Eat in Sydney on a Budget

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dining out in Sydney can be pricey, but there are affordable alternatives. For instance, sushi hubs around the city offer fresh sushi at a fraction of the cost. I enjoyed three different sushi sets for just $7, a deal that would cost around $20 in the US, including tips.

 

Want something sweet? Sure. Instead of spending a big buck on the restaurant dessert, buy various Japanese macaroons at the grocery stores. I never ate such delicious macaroons in my life, so I definitely recommend you try them if you have a sweet tooth. Or try the plain chocolate Tim Tam or donuts. They are also yummy.

 

On a hot day, it is very nice to cool down with some tasty ice cream or frozen yogurt which you can also find around the city. So based on your taste and preferences, buy a scoop or two, relax, and enjoy your time there.

 

Sydney Trip Cost (4-days)

1. Round-trip tickets from LA to Sydney – Melbourne to LA -$1441 with United Airlines
2. Trip from Chicago to LA and from LA to Chicago (in case you are from Chicago) – $200
3. Sydney hostel for 4 days – $222
4. SIM card-$20
5. Transport ~$20
6. Food ~100

Total: ~$2000

Best Sydney Tips

• Tap Off on Public Transport: Always remember to tap off when you exit public transport to avoid being charged the maximum fare.
• Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with the highest SPF every 2 hours to protect yourself from Sydney’s strong sun.
• Card Payments: Markets accept credit cards, so you don’t need to carry cash.
• SIM Cards: Purchase SIM cards from local grocery stores instead of the airport to get better deals.
• Airport Bus: Use the bus from the airport to get to the city center efficiently.
• Airport Wi-Fi: If asked for a phone number to access Wi-Fi at the airport, just Google it. The confirmation code won’t be sent, so it should work regardless.

Final Thoughts

Sydney is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Australia and a destination you will remember forever. Despite being an expensive city overall, it is not overpriced. You can easily enjoy Sydney on a budget and still have a great experience without breaking the bank. There are many free and cheap things to do that you can try. Sydney (New South Wales) has it all for you from beautiful beaches, great activities, sights, things to see, and more for all of the visitors to Sydney.  

 

I hope this Ultimate Sydney Travel Guide will help you to plan your trip. Thank you for stopping by and happy travel.

 

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