Summer is arguably the best time of year in Sydney thanks to our beautiful blue-sky days and balmy evenings. And while there’s no shortage of things to do in Sydney at any time of year, the warmer weather marks the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and explore all the wonderful things this city has to offer.
So, if you’re looking for things to do in Sydney this weekend, this month or this season, here’s our ultimate summer weekend itinerary for in and around the Sydney CBD.
Saturday morning: Explore The Rocks markets
Start off your weekend right at The Rocks Markets, which brings talented makers and artisans to the heart of Sydney every weekend. Stop by early on Saturday morning before the crowds hit and get first pick of locally-designed fashion, handcrafted jewellery, textiles, homewares, art, beauty products and photography, plus gourmet nibbles to fuel you for the day ahead.
Saturday afternoon: Do the Barangaroo Wulugul Walk
Post-markets, get a good dose of vitamin D on the Wulugul Walk around the Barangaroo foreshore, about 15 minutes’ walk east from The Rocks. Stretching from Walsh Bay to Darling Harbour, the Wulugul Walk gives you the chance to take in some of the best sights of Sydney Harbour along Sydney’s spectacular foreshore promenade.
Saturday evening: Dine at 6HEAD
After a day of outdoor exploring, treat yourself to a waterfront dining experience at 6HEAD in historic Campbell’s Cove. Sit back and relax over a selection of curated seafood, steak and seasonal dishes prepared with the best ingredients. And to round out your meal? Choose from 250-plus wines and beverages chosen for their quality and unique regional recognition.
Sunday morning: Take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden
Revel in the laid-back summer vibes with a relaxed walk through the Royal Botanic Garden on Sunday morning. Pick up a coffee and a bite to eat for an impromptu picnic and walk through the gardens, or stay a little longer and celebrate Lunar New Year until 9 February over a themed set menu lunch at Botanic House.
Sunday afternoon: See a matinee play
Get your cultural fix with a Sunday matinee performance at the Wharf Theatre, the State Theatre or the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Pro tip: this season’s must-see performance is War Horse, the critically acclaimed production from the National Theatre of Great Britain coming to the Sydney Lyric from 15 February – 15 March 2020.
Sunday evening: Do a night tour of Sydney
Cap off a perfect summer weekend with one of the quintessential things to in Sydney at night: a tour at Sydney Observatory. Use high-powered telescopes to get up close and personal with the stars, the moon and the planets, and learn about all things astronomy from your expert tour guide.