Family Activities to do in Sydney, Australia

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by Hertz NZ - 19 December 2023

When it comes to family holidays, picking activities that both adults and kids will enjoy might be a bit of a challenge but we’re here to help.. When it comes to  Australia’s most visited city, there’s plenty in store for all ages. Here, we’ve handpicked a combination of landmarks to visit, places to dine and natural attractions to explore that’ll excite adults and entertain children. Ready to go? Bring the kids along in the rental car and buckle up for an unparalleled experience of Sydney’s top attractions.  

See the Sights, Tick the Landmarks Off Your List 

Starting in Circular Quay with the city’s major landmarks on either side, park the rental car and take in the views of the harbour before setting off on your journey. Begin at the Sydney Opera House, exploring the enchanting interior and world-renowned theatres with the guide of a tour. At the end of your up close and personal exploration of the House, enjoy a flavourful lunch by the harbour at the House Canteen or Opera BarThere are also plenty of children’s programs and workshops at the Opera House throughout the year, ensuring that the whole family is engaged and entertained.  

Sydney Tower Eye

Across the bay, head to the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a one-of-a-kind private climb. Here, you can add on a post-climb lunch or luxury picnic option to round out the experience. For even greater views, head to the Sydney Tower Eye - the tallest structure in the city. Want to remember this special moment with the familyPick the VIP Adventure package which comes with photos to take home, a fine dining lunch at the Infinity revolving restaurant as well as an exclusive SKYWALK session.  

With these three family-friendly landmark experiences to choose from in the heart of Sydney, the whole family is destined for a delightful day out. 

 

Darling Harbour 

As you head towards the city, discover the dazzling waterfront precinct of Darling Harbour. There’s a wealth of activities to partake in and sights to explore here for a family-fun day out. An excellent option with activities for adults and children is a visit to the Chinese Garden of Friendship. The garden features peaceful ponds, beautiful gardens and rock works with daily guided tours, koi fish feeding opportunities and a scavenger hunt activity for children. Looking to keep the kids occupied during your trip while enjoying a quiet afternoon together as family? IMAX Sydney might just be the answer. Watch in awe as the movie fills one of the largest screens in the world and elevate your viewing experience with a reservation in an exclusive private box, complete with a chef’s menu and unlimited popcorn. When travelling as a family, deciding where to eat can be a challenge. Thankfully there’s Atelier by Sofitel right in Darling Harbour- a top-tier option that’s also family-friendly. Here, you can indulge in a fine dining experience focused on exquisite French cuisine while the children can delight in the Le Petit menu.

Darling Harbour
  

Day Trip to the Blue Mountains 

Looking to add some nature exploration to your Sydney holiday? Take the rental car out for a blissfully scenic drive to the Blue Mountains. An hour and a half from the city, the Blue Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World-Heritage-listed site known for its unique rock formations and vast landscapes. Before exploring the mountains, make a pit stop at Wentworth Falls to admire the majestic waterfall and capture those precious moments. From here, head to the main attraction - the Three Sisters rock formation. Named according to an Aboriginal dreamtime legend, the Sisters are three giant sandstone cliffs standing over 3,000 feet above sea level. For a personalised day out in the Mountains, opt for a private tour featuring stops along the way and rare wildlife encounters.  

Blue Mountains

For a bit more adventure on your trip, visit
Scenic World - a renowned attraction offering unmatched views of the Blue Mountains from the ground, out of a train window or from an aerial cable car. At the peak, overlook the entire range and have a bite to eat at the Scenic World Top Station. From here, journey down the world’s steepest railway and emerge onto the rainforest floor, float over the top of the range on the Scenic Skyway - Australia’s first cable car - or descend into the Jamison Valley on the Scenic CablewayIf heights aren’t your thing, you can explore the Mountains on foot with a trek through the Scenic Walkway. Wander through the eucalypt rainforest on an elevated boardwalk and uncover the region’s mining past at the historic coal mine. With amazing views to admire and imitable experiences, a day trip to the Blue Mountains National Park is well worth it while you’re in Sydney. 

 

With a blend of local landmarks, must-see sights, entertainment and delicious dining for the whole family, Sydney makes the perfect destination for an extra special family getaway. Now, all that’s left to do is to book your Hertz rental car and surprise the kids with a holiday!