It’s not Oslo or Tokyo, but Sydney can be an expensive place to go on a holiday. It’s #7 on this year’s report of the priciest places to visit according to US News. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit, and really doesn’t mean you have to break your bank account to have a good time. Some of the best parts of the city can be experienced for under $45.
For example…
1. Climb the Pylon Lookout
Here’s what you do. Go to the Harbour Bridge for the view, then walk right past it to the Pylon Lookout. It’s a bit of a hike, but the cost is around $18 for a view of city and the harbor (as opposed to the $250 they want to climb the bridge herself). The Pylon walk even includes exhibits about the history of that expensive-to-climb bridge.
2. Check out Luna Park
This quirky carnival across from Circular Quay is a favourite among local youth, and a great opportunity to enjoy some night life and gather a few stories to tell once you get home. Enter through the iconically weird mouth gate, and stroll to your heart’s content for free. Rides and games cost extra, but how much extra is between you and your willpower?
3. Hire a bike and explore Centennial Park
About 4km southeast of Central Sydney is one of the best parks in Australia. Hire a bike for around $25 per hour and explore the paths, groves, lakes and waterways. If you’re especially brave, linger in Lachlan Swamp and check out the flying foxes nestled in the mangroves there.
4. Go lawn bowling at Clovelly
Who doesn’t love a little lawn bowling? Clovelly is right next to the ocean and rarely gets too crowded. Make an afternoon of it just under $20 (plus a little for food and drink).
5. Have a pint at the Glenmore Hotel
You can spend a shocking amount of money to access a sky-high view of Sydney… or you can go to the roof of the Glenmore, sit down beneath an umbrella and order a drink. It gets a bit crowded during peak hours, but for an afternoon break or late night finisher, it’s comfortable and welcoming.
6. Rent a kayak for Wharfside exploration
At Manly Centre in (you guessed it, partner) Manly Beach, you can rent a sea kayak for around $28 per hour. Use it to explore the shoreline or visit several of the small beaches accessible only via water. True, chances are you’ll end up spending more than an hour (and more than $45), but it’s worth it.
7. Take the Manly Ferry
The ferry jumps off from Cockle Bay and runs every 30 minutes for pretty much any hour you’ll feel like being awake. It’s one of the best ways to explore the harbour, and lets you off in Manly Beach right where West Esplanade turns into East Esplanade. The ride is about $18.
8. Stroll the Coogee Walk
Every show set in Sydney you’ve ever seen includes somebody walking along a coastal path with gorgeous beach on one side and countless bars and restaurants across the street on the other. Coogee Walk is that path, and it winds along the beaches at Bronte, Clovelly, Gordon’s Bay and Tamarama. It’s free to walk, though the pints along the way will tempt you.
9. Cruise the Chinatown night market
This is one of the premier night markets in the world, rivaling the shopping extravaganzas of Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. You’ll find it in the Haymarket district, across from the Chinese Garden of Friendship (also under $45). Entry is free. Whether you make it out without spending $45 is up to you.
10. St. George’s Open Air Cinema
Tickets start at around $45, but sitting in the evening air by the water and watching a movie on an outdoor screen is too much an archetypical Sydney experience to miss. Whether you use the time to rest after a long day of exploring, or to ramp up for a night of clubbing and drinking, make it a part of your Sydney schedule.
Saving money on your trip to Sydney starts with booking your flight with us. While you’re at it, beat that $220 per night average hotel price by bundling your lodgings and car for a package deal. It will cost a little more than $45, but it will still save you some serious coin.
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