If you only have a few days to spend in Sydney, what should you do? Don’t worry; with my guidance, you’ll be able to explore the best aspects of this vibrant city in just three days.

I visited Sydney over the long Easter weekend. According to TripAdvisor, there are 855 things to do in Sydney! Imagine being surrounded by travel destinations, abundant shops, and throngs of people. The city is a place that will undoubtedly quicken your pulse. You might want to see everything Sydney has to offer, but time is limited. The good news is that you can experience the essentials in just three days without missing out on anything crucial. Here’s how:

Strategies for Making the Most of Your Time in Sydney

Start Your Journey at the Opera House - It’s impossible to visit Sydney without snapping a selfie at the Opera House and, of course, the Harbour Bridge. Although climbing the bridge is possible, it’s quite expensive. I recommend saving money by riding the Sydney Ferris Wheel for a unique and possibly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The views are also breathtaking!

Take a Stroll on The Rocks - Head to the area near the Opera House and treat yourself to Pancakes on the Rocks; it’s a delightful experience. Alternatively, you could get fish and chips at one of Glebe’s fish markets. If you’re there over the weekend, The Rocks Market is teeming with interesting vendors, local artisans, and music. Hundreds of stalls sell everything from food to jewelry, but unfortunately, I don’t have tips for spending less when you’re tempted to buy more.

Visit Museums and Art Galleries - The museums and art galleries around Martin Place caught my interest. Many of them offer free entry and a wealth of information. Though I’m not an expert on contemporary art, some of my favorites include the Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of NSW, The Rocks Discovery Museum, the Powerhouse Museum, and the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Explore Darling Harbour - Darling Harbour is a must-visit for anyone coming to Sydney. On Saturday nights, you can enjoy Madame Tussauds, an aquarium, and spectacular fireworks. Being close to the water is simply refreshing. The IMAX theatre here boasts the world’s largest screen, but choose a film that’s worth the scale. I once saw Tom Cruise’s Top Gun—a great movie—but it wasn’t as enjoyable in 3D. Also, don’t miss the Lindt Chocolate Café, Hurricane.

Relax at Bondi Beach - Make sure to visit the famous beaches of Bondi, Manly, Coogee, Bronte, and Maroubra, which are beautiful, clean, and have soft sand. The beaches are usually crowded, which means you’ll see plenty of eye-catching swimwear. Stay focused!

Experience the World’s Best Ice Cream - If you’re an ice cream aficionado, a trip to Newtown is a must. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can find exquisite gelato. You can also try unique flavors at Cow and the Moon. However, be prepared to wait in line and struggle to find a seat where you can savor your gelato. You’ll undoubtedly become a fan of this establishment!

Final Thoughts - There’s so much more to explore, but these activities and destinations are must-sees. As you can see, nothing is impossible. Rise early, make the most of your time, pull up Google Maps, and immerse yourself in an authentic Sydney experience. Enjoy your trip!