It is hard not to fall in love with Sydney. Few cities pair big-city energy with this much natural beauty. Mornings can start with an ocean swim at Bondi before a fabulous lunch. Afternoons can be spent on a harbor ferry, and evenings at some of the most exciting restaurants in the world. It's a place that rewards curiosity, whether you're a first-timer or returning for the fifth time.
This is our snapshot of the city at its best: the experiences worth planning around, the restaurants and shops to know and the top hotels that make Sydney so hard to leave.
Sleep
Boutique Gems & Epic Harbour Views
Capella Sydney
After a seven-year renovation of a 1900s sandstone building in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), the transformation of Capella Sydney was completed in the spring of 2023—and the result, extending across an entire city block, is spectacular.
Park Hyatt Sydney
This harborfront hotel is the undisputed favorite in Sydney and the go-to top spot for visiting celebrities and dignitaries. Once the location of the city's water police station, it has incredible views of the waterfront and the Sydney Opera House from the dining room, the rooftop pool and bar.
Crown Towers Sydney
Crown Towers Sydney occupies a gleaming waterfront tower at Barangaroo, with a fabulous outdoor pool that looks directly across the water to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
Shop
Fashion, Home Stores & Local Treasures
Parlour X
Owner Eva Galambos is forever globe-trotting to discover party frocks and fashion-forward labels for her stylish clientele.
Lucy Folk
Perhaps the best boutique in Bondi Beach, Playa by Lucy Folk occupies a signature pastel-pink storefront where it sells beach-ready attire, playful jewelry and fabulous sunglasses.
CAMILLA AND MARC - Bondi Junction
The brother-and-sister team of Camilla Freeman-Topper and Marc Freeman have been wowing the city’s tastemakers since their Australian Fashion Week debut in 2003. Expect precise, subtly sexy separates, day-to-night dresses and luxurious fabrics along with a chic swimwear collection.
The Intersection Paddington
A can’t-miss in Sydney is the Intersection at Paddington, a shopping area with great boutiques including Zimmerman, Camilla and Marc and Scanlan Theodore.
ZIMMERMANN Sydney CBD
The Sydney flagship of the chic Australian brand Zimmermann offers the full collection of flowy dresses and glamorous, feminine cuts, as well as swimwear, shoes and accessories.
Tour
Museums, Historic Sights & More
Bondi to Coogee Walk
One of Sydney’s most stunning walks, this scenic coastal path starts at Bondi Beach and ends at Coogee Beach.
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Australia’s most high-profile—and often controversial—art prize, the Archibald Prize (awarded annually for best portrait painting), is on view here, and the contemporary-art section on the lower level is brilliant.
Manly Surf School
One of Australia's top surfing schools, Manly Surf School was founded at Manly Beach in 1995 and still bases its operation here even though it now has outposts in Palm Beach, Collaroy and Long Reef.
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Sydney’s Taronga Zoo is a great place to see Australia’s famous wildlife and enjoy spectacular city views.
Unlock the Indagare Guide to Sydney
Use MyTrips to save these hotels, book online with our perks and map out your itinerary for a trip to Sydney. Upgrade your membership to work with a dedicated trip designer to begin planning your next trip; contact our team to get started.
Published onOctober 30, 2026
More Inspiration
The Perfect 24 Hours in Sydney
With just 24 hours in Sydney, Indagare foodie Kathryn Nathanson made every moment count. Discover her top picks—from unforgettable meals and must-try cocktails to the experiences you won’t want to miss.
Plan Your Trip With Us
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.
Get in touch