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12 Things You Can Do and See for Free in Sydney

This inspirational article is a part of the collaboration between Traveloka and Destination New South Wales (NSW).

As well as being home to world-class events, indulgent dining experiences and premium shopping, there is plenty to see and do in the capital city of New South Wales that doesn't cost a penny and still allows travelers to have a signature experience. Sydney. From art therapy at the renowned Art Gallery of NSW or a free walking tour of the city, these activities are must-haves in any Sydney itinerary, whether you're traveling solo as a backpacker, with your family or as a couple.

1. Catch the amazing sunset over Sydney Harbour

Sydney's deep water harbor is one of Australia's busiest waterways and a visual icon thanks to the world-famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. Apart from its architectural marvels, the area around the harbor is also adorned with shrubs and natural beauty. The most amazing time to admire the horizon is at sunset; golden hour, and at dusk, see the harbor transform in seconds with red, orange and pink skies, followed by an illumination of city lights.

2. Embark on one of the Coastal Walks between Bondi to Manly

With the opening of the 80 km man-made promenade connecting Bondi and Manly in late 2019, tourists can now walk between two of the world's most iconic beaches. Some of the popular trails include the South Head Heritage Track, Hermitage Foreshore Track, and the Bradleys Head Walk. A track rich in indigenous heritage, it passes through some of the most spectacular coastal and harborside suburbs, some of which offer views of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Whether you spend a few hours exploring this small section of the trail or seven days to explore the entire 80 km, you'll encounter a multitude of unique experiences along the way, including the majestic historic beauty of Vaucluse House and important Aboriginal sites at Grotto Point. .

3. Enjoy Free Live Music at Opera Bar

Arguably the most iconic bar in Sydney, Opera Bar offers a cool, open air setting with unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. Music lovers can enjoy music performances from various local and international artists for free every day.

4. Whale Watching from Barrenjoey lighthouse

For those of you looking for something out of town, you can take a day trip to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse, which sits at Barrenjoey Head, Palm Beach on Sydney's north coast. Built in 1881, this lighthouse is only an hour's drive from downtown Sydney. This iconic spot was made famous by its appearance on the television series Home and Away and is an ideal location for whale watching. Those visiting between May and September should bring binoculars to catch a glimpse of these huge and graceful whales migrating.

5. Art therapy at the Art Gallery of NSW

One of Sydney's most important public galleries, the Art Gallery of NSW was founded in 1871 and showcases the best of Australian and international art in one of the most beautiful art museums in the world. Modern and contemporary works are displayed in spacious, light-filled spaces, while those seeking older works of art can visit the splendid Grand Courts for a distinguished collection of Australian and 19th-century colonial works as well as Europe's leading artists. There are also special galleries dedicated to Asian art and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. The free 'Under the Stars' exhibition runs until 2021 to celebrate thousands of years of admiring the night sky, bringing together indigenous art created in many different eras by many different cultures.

6. Family Day Out at Parsley Bay

Praised for its excellent combination of park, playground and beach access, Parsley Bay in Vaucluse is ideal for a fun family outing. This bay is tucked away in the eastern suburbs, making it an excellent place to escape the crowds. As well as a covered swimming area, picnic facilities and a play area, there is also a short bushwalk (15-20 minutes round trip), for toddlers who aren't yet exhausted by the end of the day.

7. Exploring the Carriageworks Farmers Market

You can browse some of the best organic produce Sydney and New South Wales have to offer at the Carriageworks Farmers Market every Saturday. Discover a number of certified organic stalls offering fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, flowers, oils, nuts and delicious gluten-free pastries, hot pies and fancy cakes.

8. Explore Sydney on a Free Walking Tour

There's no better way to explore a place than with a local; Walking tours such as I'm Free and Free Tours Sydney offer a variety of walking tours that delve into the city's history, culture and architecture and are flavored with interesting information and insight from local guides. From iconic sights to hidden gems, free walking tours are the best way to discover the best of Sydney.

9. Street Art around Newtown and Bondi Beach

Tucked away in the western suburbs of Sydney's central business district, art lovers will love Newtown's amazing street art. Since the 1980s, this suburb has become known for its prominent variety of graffiti and street art. You'll admire visual art from large-scale mural paintings to hand-painted political slogans. If you still want more art inspiration, you can head to Bondi Beach where you will find the iconic Bondi Beach Graffiti Wall. Over the years, the wall has hosted the work of some of the most famous street artists around the world. Featured artwork ranges from collages, stencils, pop art, text works, love notes and memorial portraits.

10. Go for a Dip at the Maccallum Harbor Ocean Pool

Located on the west side of Cremorne, Maccallum Pool is a 33m long historic pool on the edge of the harbor with an architectural style dating back to the 1920s. Reached by ferry from Circular Quay, entry to the swimming pool is free and allows you to bask in the sun with views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge.

11. Darling Quarter Playground

Darling Quarter is a free wonderland for kids and adults alike. Known as one of the most comprehensive playgrounds in town, it is a colorful hub with endless opportunities for kids of all ages to slide, climb, jog, scramble, swing. Future gymnasts can test their skills on the 18.7m balance rope, while The Octanet is ideal for novice explorers to climb. While their kids are playing, parents can enjoy the fun at the Village Green or the theatre, or browse the art exhibits and flea markets on offer.

12. The Calyx at Royal Botanic Gardens

Located in the heart of Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens, Calyx is defined as 'floral sepals, usually forming whorls that enclose the petals and form a protective sheath around the flower bud'. Calyx is known as the jewel of the Royal Botanic Garden, offering stunning architecture and the largest vertical flower display in the Southern Hemisphere. A café by day and an event space by night, Calyx is considered one of Sydney's most unique and interesting places to visit.

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