Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour (Small-Group, Drink Included)

Sydney , Australia

Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour (Small-Group, Drink Included)

Active

(456 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the story of Sydney on this expert-led small-group tour (max. 12 guests), while hitting all of the city’s main attractions.

Perfect for those who have just arrived, as well as locals and those who want to go deeper in learning about Australian history, culture, society and First Nations people.

Starting from Customs House, you’ll hear about Sydney’s colonisation by the British - and how their arrival impacted the original inhabitants.

Your guide will provide you with a range of perspectives on Sydney’s development, introducing Aboriginal leaders, British governors, convicts and entrepreneurs, as well as more recent arrivals.

You’ll finish with a beer at a popular brewery with views of the Bridge, the Opera House and Sydney Harbour. Over a drink, your host will give you further recommendations to make your time in Sydney special – stuff you won’t find in a guidebook!

Walk the streets in a small group so you’re not fighting to see & hear your guide or stay on the footpath.

Available options

Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour (Small-Group, Drink Included)

What's included

Group photos

Map with recommendations

1 classic Aussie snack/biscuit

1 small glass of craft beer (or soft drink or juice) Served for 18 years old and above.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We start at Customs House where you'll see a scale model of all of Sydney and where we will walk (approx 4km / 2.5 miles). You'll also learn some Aboriginal place names for parts of Sydney and explore the new precinct immediately behind Customs House.

We walk past the "Rum Hospital", which now consists of NSW Parliament, the Sydney Hospital and the Mint.

Stop 3

We will stop outside Hyde Park Barracks as you hear the story of its construction and infamous architect. We do not enter the Barracks.

Stop 4

We will briefly enter the Royal Botanic Gardens to see the location of the former Garden Palace and Governor Phillip Fountain.

Stop 5

We will briefly enter the Queen Victoria Building, but mainly just to see it and for any guests to use the bathrooms.

Stop 6

We stop in Hyde Park where you will get a great view of St Mary's Cathedral. We do not enter the cathedral or go up close to it (approximately 50 metres from the building).

We will stop in Martin Place and Pitt St to look at the General Post Office and hear the story of its controversial construction and design.

We will stop in Martin Place to hear about the ANZAC Cenotaph and Australia's involvement in World War 1.

Stop 9

We will walk through part of The Rocks towards the end of the tour, visiting the Nurses Walk, Jack Mundey Place and lower George St.

Stop 10 Pass by

We will see the Opera House from where we finish the tour and at Campbell's Cove. We do not enter the Opera House but you will hear the story of its construction.

Stop 11 Pass by

We will see the Sydney Harbour Bridge from where the tour finishes. We do not get up on the bridge as part of the tour, but it is a short walk from the end point.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

125 reviews

5★

119

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

331 reviews

5★

327

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Must be able to comfortably walk 4 km over 3 hours

Tour not recommended for children under 12 years of age as it involves 3 hours of stories and significant walking (4 km)

Not recommended for travels uncomfortable walking 4 km

Meeting point

We meet in front of Customs House, beside the steps and access ramp (on the right hand side as you face Customs House).

About Sydney

Sydney, Australia's most iconic city, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. With its blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, Sydney offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Sydney Opera House

An iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House is a masterpiece of modern architecture and a hub for performing arts.

Architecture/Cultural 1-2 hours for a tour, longer for a performance AUD 42-100 (tour prices vary)

Sydney Harbour Bridge

One of the world's most famous bridges, offering spectacular views and the thrill of the BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk.

Architecture/Adventure 2-3 hours (depending on activity) AUD 174-468 (BridgeClimb prices vary)

Bondi Beach

Australia's most famous beach, known for its golden sand, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach/Entertainment Half day to full day Free (surfboard rentals and lessons cost extra)

The Rocks

A historic area with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant market scene.

Historical/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (market and museum entry fees apply)

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the harbour and Opera House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avo on Toast

A simple yet iconic dish featuring avocado on toast, often topped with poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Barramundi

A popular Australian fish, often grilled or pan-fried and served with seasonal vegetables and a sauce.

Dinner Gluten-free (check for specific sauces and sides)

Tim Tams

A beloved Australian chocolate biscuit, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee, similar to a latte but with a stronger coffee flavor and velvety microfoam.

Drink Contains dairy (non-dairy options available)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Mountains Surfing at Bondi Beach BridgeClimb or BridgeWalk at Sydney Harbour Bridge Kayaking in Sydney Harbour Scuba diving in Jervis Bay Beach lounging at Bondi Beach Picnicking in the Royal Botanic Garden Spa day at a luxury hotel

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sydney, with long, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor events. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20-26°C 68-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (GMT+10) or AEDT (GMT+11) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sydney is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services to avoid overcharging.
• Purchase tickets from official sources or authorized sellers.

Getting there

By air

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

By bus

Central Station, Sydney Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Sydney's train network is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Rocks Bondi Surry Hills Newtown Barangaroo

Day trips

Blue Mountains

80 km (50 miles) from Sydney • Full day

A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Hunter Valley

120 km (75 miles) from Sydney • Full day

Australia's oldest wine region, offering beautiful vineyards, wine tasting, and gourmet dining.

Royal National Park

30 km (19 miles) from Sydney • Half day to full day

Australia's oldest national park, offering beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

Festivals

Sydney Festival • January Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras • February/March Sydney Writers' Festival • May

Pro tips

Use an Opal card for convenient and discounted public transport fares.
Visit iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore Sydney's diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and attractions.
Take a ferry to explore the city's stunning harbour and waterfront areas.
Try local specialties like seafood, Asian cuisine, and Australian wines.