7 Best Things To Do As A Solo Traveller In Sydney
If Sydney has been on the bucket list for a while but you’ve been waiting for a travel buddy to take with you on the journey, stop right there! Sydney is one of the best city’s to solo travel in, so don’t let being alone stop you from taking a trip, with this guide on top picks for tourists doing it on their ownsome to start you off.
If you’ve ever taken the leap and done some solo travel, you’ll know there’s a unique beauty to it – particularly with the unparalleled freedom that comes without having anyone else to consider when deciding on plans.
While it may seem intimidating, solo travel has some undeniable benefits; you’ll gain independence and resilience through decision making, meet new people from a range of different cultures; and be pushed outside of your comfort zone, leading to increased self-confidence.
The safe, modern, clean and inclusive city that it is, Sydney is a fantastic destination for going it alone. Great public transport, tonnes of activities created for solo travellers in mind, and an easy-going vibe combine to make Sydney and its surrounds a top choice. And here’s some of our favourite things to do while you’re here!
#1. Get cultured at a museum
Sydney’s museum scene is diverse and vast, with everything from maritime history to fine art highlighted in establishments across the city. Strolling a museum is ideal as a leisurely solo activity, allowing you to soak up everything without any distractions, at your desired. Walk just across the road from us at Aiden Darling Harbour to marvel at one of the largest and most diverse in-water fleets at the Australian National Maritime Museum, or head to the Australian Museum, opposite Hyde Park, to experience a unique mix of science, history and culture.
#2. Connect with nature
Feeling like you need to get back to nature? Sydney is a bustling city, but it doesn’t skimp on green space that’s waiting to be explored. Our neighbourhood, Pyrmont, has more than 20 lush parks and reserves, the largest being Pirrama Park that has something for everyone with cafes, an outdoor gym and covered picnic areas. If you’ve got your walking shoes on and fancy a longer stroll, take a wander with a wharf-to-wharf walk around Jones Bay Wharf and Darling Harbour, before heading up to Sydney’s oldest park, Hyde Park and settle in for an afternoon of leisure in the leafy surrounds. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is also one not to be missed, being the perfect tranquil retreat right in the heart of the CBD.
Credit: Destination NSW
#3. Indulge in Sydney’s cafe scene
If there’s something that Australians are passionate about, it’s their coffee and cafes, and a solo trip to one makes the perfect setting to start on that book you’ve been meaning to read. There’s no shortage in the selection of baked goods, artisanal pastries and fresh bread on offer in the city, with multiple cafes in Pyrmont that are perfect for solo exploration – all just a short walk away from our hotel. For the best spots for solo dining in Sydney, head to Akipan for fresh cups of matcha, hojicha and warm teas, and indulge your sweet tooth at PiOik Bakery with their flaky croissants and danishes. Embrace a classic Aussie brunch at Quick Brown Fox Eatery – a local’s favourite for people-watching and dining alfresco, and one of the best places to eat alone in Sydney.
#4. Find some furry friends
Who doesn’t love a cute and cuddly critter? In Sydney, you don’t need to venture far to experience a memorable local animal encounter. One of the best things to do alone in Sydney is to hop on the ferry and enjoy the sights of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge en-route to Taronga Zoo where you’ll encounter animals of both the big and small variety. If you’d rather stick closer to your home away from home, head to Darling Harbour and explore WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, located just across Pyrmont Bridge from us. Come face to face with kangaroos, koalas, wombats, platypus and a giant saltwater crocodile, all just metres from Sydney’s CBD.
#5. Discover Sydney’s fascinating history
Get your steps in while learning more about Sydney on one of the many walking tours in the city; you might even meet some new friends along the way! Explore hidden laneways, scenic views and get up close and personal with Sydney and British Australia’s history with The Rocks walking tour, or learn about the city’s Indigenous history and the Dreamtime stories that shaped it with Dreamtime Southern X. If you want a walking tour with something a bit extra, check out Local Sauce Tours which include food tours “secret bar crawls”, street art tours and history walks.
Credit: The Rocks Walking Tours
#6. Shop til you drop
Sydney’s shopping scene is a substantial one, with Westfield, the Queen Victoria Building and Pitt Street Mall all providing the necessities for a day of retail therapy. If you’d rather bask in the outdoors while you’re shopping, Sydney fits the bill with its wide array of markets in every pocket of the city. Make the most of your solo day out in Sydney by taking the short ferry ride over to Circular Quay and stroll through The Rocks Markets, which are on every weekend and have a variety of locally-designed fashion, handcrafted jewellery, art and homewares on offer.
#7. Get crafty
Why not come away from your holiday with a new skill or bespoke piece of art painted by yours truly? Whether it’s painting a masterpiece while sipping on your favourite vino, channelling your inner Patrick Swayze with a spot of pottery or creating your very own scent to always remind you of your trip, there’s a class that suits every personality. Not just fun, taking a class might be the perfect way to meet some other solo travellers.
Credit: Pinot & Picasso
NEED A PLACE TO STAY?
Base yourself by all the action across from the CBD and next door to Darling Harbour, in the village-like neighbourhood setting of Pyrmont. That way, they can have the best of both worlds as well as easy access to everything around Sydney. Convenience meets artistic flare here, with luxe features like hand-painted murals, Dyson Supersonic hair dryers and free-flowing Moda sparkling water, on-site restaurant and bar, and one of Sydney’s best hotel breakfasts.
If you’re travelling solo, our small, compact but thoughtfully-designed rooms are a solid choice. Especially our Internal Mural View Rooms, which are designed for single occupancy. Beds are wall-to-wall and next to the window, ideal for your own private viewing of Sydney’s highest hidden indoor mural. The vibrant 25-metre-high wall mural has been handpainted by ever-clever local artist Jessica Le Clerc, turning your room into an exclusive gallery 24-7, for your eyes only. Each room faces a different part of the mural for a varied experience.
BOOKINGS & ACTIVITIES
Our team of hosts would be delighted to assist with creating and booking a tailored itinerary of local activities for your trip. Get in touch with questions and requests, as well as other insider tips and suggestions on what to see and do in Sydney.
Please note, businesses and tour operators may have adjusted opening hours during special event periods and major holidays. Some activities require pre-booking and are subject to availability. It’s always best to check first!