View all locations on google map
I have marked all of the below locations with precision on a Google Map List, for your ease of navigation. You can view it here or by clicking on the map below.
How to get to these locations
Public transport
Sydney offers an excellent range of public transport options, including trains, metros, buses, ferries, and light rail. To use these services, you'll need an Opal card, a smart card that you tap on the payment machine when boarding and disembarking from trains, buses, or ferries. For information on acquiring Opal cards and electronic top-ups, please visit the NSW transport website.
To plan your journeys, download one of the government's transportation apps; my personal favorite is TripView - simply key in your destination and the app will provide you with various options sorted by travel time, distance, or mode of transport. With this app, you can track your bus or train in real-time and determine its proximity to your location.
Last but not least, I highly recommend taking the public ferries, as they offer spectacular views of the harbour at reasonable prices and are an efficient means of getting around.
Car, taxi or uber
It is easy to drive in Sydney so renting a car is a great option, but do note that parking generally costs. Just other cities, you can also hail taxis or use Uber.
Walking
Like any other major cosmopolitan city, Sydney is a vast metropolis. Therefore, it is advisable to utilize public transport or a car for efficient travel between different areas of the city.
That being said, once you reach a particular destination suburb (e.g., Manly Beach via public transport), walking is an excellent way to explore that suburb. You can spend an entire day strolling along the coast at Manly Beach, enjoying the beach and exploring the surrounding cafes and shops.
Introduction
Sydney is one of the most beautiful places in the world - it has breathtaking natural beauty as well as wonderfully rich culture. I lived in Sydney between 2009-2018 and I still visit it often, so I know it very well. Sydney's beauty stems from its remarkable combination of natural and man-made wonders. The city is surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes, featuring pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and clear blue waters that invite relaxation and recreation. Its vibrant urban architecture showcases a blend of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, creating a captivating cityscape. The city's diverse culture and friendly residents, as well as its vibrant arts, culinary and entertainment scenes add to its allure. The abundance of green spaces and parks provides peaceful respites, while its temperate climate enhances the overall aesthetics of this beautiful city.
Campbell’s Cove
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
The Sydney Harbour is undoubtedly the most iconic destination in the city. The quintessential postcard image of the Sydney Harbour can be found at Circular Quay, where the Harbour Bridge stretches to the left and the Opera House graces the right. However, be prepared for huge crowds at Circular Quay station, so make a swift exit from Circular Quay station and head towards the western ocean promenade, leading to Campbell's Cove.
Campbell's Cove, a stunning waterfront boardwalk, offers unobstructed views of the Opera House. From this vantage point, you can take in the Sydney city skyline, the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This car-free area provides a perfect backdrop for photos and a pleasant stroll along the waterfront.
2. Bronte baths
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
There are so many beautiful beaches in Sydney that you are spoiled for choice. However, I put the Bronte Baths at the top of the list because it is easy to take photos here and its unique design offers interesting perspectives and compositional materials: the rock pool juxtaposed next to the ocean, the waves crashing against the rocks surrounding the pool, the old sandstones and the retro white picket fences.
It is called the ‘Bronte baths’, but it is in fact one huge rock pool - a swimming pool amongst the rocks with ocean water inside, right next to the ocean.
3. Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
One of Sydney’s most photogenic locations is its iconic wild surf, white-sand beach scene. As such, the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is an absolute must-do in Sydney. It is a 6-km coastal walk that extends along Sydney's majestic eastern ocean beaches (Bondi beach, Tamarama beach, Bronte beach, Clovelly Beach and Coogee Beach). There are many photo opportunities as you walk past stunning views of dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, nestled bays and rock pools. The path consists of easy board walks and paved pathways. The best thing about this walk is the inspired feeling you will take away and treasure, rather than just the photos you take - in fact, I don’t think photos can capture it and hope that you will go and experience this walk for yourself!
4. Mrs Macquarie’s chair
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Mrs Macquarie’s chair is situated at the peninsula tip of the Royal Botanical Garden. It is a popular view point and photography spot because there are no cars along this ocean-front footpath. In one shot, you get the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background, and the Sydney harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden in the foreground. While a popular photo spot, there is plenty of space for everyone, making this one of the easiest spots in Sydney to take photos at.
5. University of Sydney
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
This is one of the most special places in the world for me, as it is where I met my husband during our first year as university students! In between classes, we used to sit and chat for hours with a view of the beautiful campus. Many years later, no matter how much we have travelled, we still say to each other that this is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It is not only visually stunning but also exudes a calm, soothing atmosphere that inspires and heals the soul.
The university's campus has gained widespread recognition as one of the world's most beautiful. The main buildings are constructed in the Victorian Academic Gothic Revival architectural style, featuring iconic pointed arches, gargoyles, rib vaults, and sandstone structures.
The grounds of the university are expansive and there are many photo spots. Please be respectful and keep quiet as this is a university with students studying and academics working.
6. Hickson Road Reserve
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Hickson Road Reserve is a charming, albeit small, grassy urban park situated directly beneath the city side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This park is a part of the waterfront promenade that extends along Circular Quay and offers a splendid, unobstructed view of both the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
7. Darling harbour
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Darling Harbour is undeniably one of the most touristy places in Australia, so be prepared for crowds. Nevertheless, the pedestrian promenade that extends the length of Darling Harbour is too stunning to miss. To enjoy it with fewer crowds, I'd recommend visiting before 10 am. The nighttime ambiance is equally enchanting, creating a romantic setting for a leisurely stroll with your significant other. Situated near the heart of Sydney, you'll have a clear view of the city's towering skyscrapers. The combination of the blue ocean, clear skies and white boats gently swaying in the marina makes for a picture-perfect Sydney scene.
8. Bondi beach
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Bondi Beach requires no introduction, being one of the most frequently visited destinations in Australia. This expansive white-sand crescent, complete with ocean pools and captivating waves filled with surfers, is an iconic representation of an Australian ocean beach.
9. Royal Botanical Garden
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
The Sydney Royal Botanical Garden, boasting a history of over 200 years, is home to a gorgeous array of plants and flowers. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, relax in the cafes, or unwind with a picnic on the extensive open grassy area right at the waterfront which offers an uninterrupted view of the Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. The picturesque surroundings naturally provide excellent photo opportunities.
What makes this place even more special is that it's entirely free, with no entrance fee. The garden is open every day, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season (please check the schedule here).
10. Bradfield Park
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Bradfield Park is positioned directly beneath the north side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, offering an unobstructed view of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and the northern side of Sydney city. While the park may not be extensive or the most grand in the city, it serves as an excellent spot for photography. The park's trees, benches and ocean-side fences can all be incorporated into your composition, enhancing your framing options.
11. Strand Arcade
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
The Strand Arcade, located in the heart of Sydney city, is a beautifully preserved heritage Victorian-style retail arcade. Constructed in 1890, the arcade has withstood two depressions and two World Wars while maintaining its original architectural charm. The arcade is exceptionally photogenic, owing to its unique heritage design, featuring 'old school' cedar stairs, timber shop fronts, a tinted glass rooftop and distinctive galleries of thoroughfare. Within its elegant confines, you'll find boutique, locally owned businesses, including traditional shoemakers, barbers, jewelers, boutique chocolatiers, treasure troves of trinkets, specialty coffee shops and Australian fashion brands.
12. Bronte beach view point
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Safety warning! Please only go up here on a calm, non-windy day and only if you are fit and feel comfortable with your coordination, to avoid tumbling over the cliff! Exercise common sense and come up here at your own risk.
This is somewhat of a 'secret' spot; you can't even see it from the road if you don't pay attention - I found it by chance. From the Bronte Baths, go up to the street directly on top of the rock pool, called Calga Place. Go along Calga Place to the top of the street (about a 200 meter uphill walk), then turn left and you will see this sandstone open space.
The shot is photogenic wish a dash of dramatic - the iconic Sydney sandstone cliffs set against the also iconic long stretches of beaches.
13. Lavender Bay Jetty
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
This suburban gem is relatively obscure, making it a tranquil spot for photography. The jetty serves as a docking point for private boats and a water taxi pick-up location, but it also doubles as a picturesque waterfront promenade for the public's enjoyment. From here, you'll have a splendid, unobstructed view of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Harbour Bridge. You can seamlessly combine your photography session with a leisurely walk starting from the jetty and following the harbour all the way to the Harbour Bridge, which is just 1 km away.
14. Pyrmont Bay boardwalk
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Pyrmont, located at the tranquil edge of Darling Harbour, offers a view similar to that of Darling Harbour but without the bustling crowds. Pyrmont Bay features picturesque boardwalks that run along the harbourfront, charming marinas and small parks, creating a beautiful environment for leisurely walks and of course, serving as an excellent spot for photography.
15. Fairlight beach
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Situated in the north shore suburb of Fairlight, this lesser-known beach is a local favorite that often escapes the tourist radar. Accessible via the picturesque "Fairlight Walk" along the coast from Manly wharf (a 1km journey), Fairlight Beach boasts a charming rock pool with rocks extending in both directions and some just offshore, providing an intriguing subject for photography.
16. Peter Kingston Walkway
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
The Peter Kingston Walkway is a scenic 1km harbour-front boardwalk promenade, stretching from the Lavender Bay Jetty to Bradfield Park. Along this route, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the harbour marina, the iconic Lunar Park amusement park and the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
17. Cremorne Reserve
Location: google map location.
Cost: free.
Nestled in a suburban enclave, Cremorne Reserve remains somewhat undiscovered by tourists, making it an excellent spot for photography. This stunning park boasts a scenic perimeter path that spans over 1km along the harbour, offering panoramic views of the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
I highly recommend spending an afternoon here, not only for photography but also to enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply nap on the lush grass while basking in the sun and savouring the ocean breeze. The view of the ocean from this vantage point is absolutely breathtaking.
18. Taronga Zoo
Location: google map location.
Cost: $44 AUD for one adult. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Taronga Zoo is a truly exceptional and heartwarming place. The remarkable animal care and conservation efforts conducted here are remarkable; witnessing the genuine love and pampering that the zookeepers provide to the resident animals is always a heartwarming sight. At the zoo, you can encounter a wide array of Australia's native animals, such as koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, wallabies, Tasmanian devils, and quokkas. Additionally, there are other Southern Ocean natives, including sea lions, penguins, and seals, as well as international residents like Asian elephants, African giraffes and rainforest hippos. A visit to the zoo is among my favorite things to do in Sydney, and it always leaves me with a heart full of smiles at the end of the day.
The zoo's location is unbeatable, offering spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge. Visitors can capture photos of the animals, take snapshots alongside them and even have the unique opportunity to stay overnight at the zoo's beautiful accommodations, where they can enjoy up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures!
