Aerial view of Sydney Harbour with the Sydney Opera House on the left and the city's skyline in the background, with boats sailing in the water.

Sydney, Australia

Harbour haze & golden arcs


Sydney was one of the destinations I had been looking forward to the most, and it did not disappoint for a moment. From the first steps around Circular Quay, the city felt instantly alive. The Opera House and the Harbour Bridge are sights you think you already know from photos, but standing there in person gives them a completely different weight. The water, the ferries, the open sky, it all comes together in a way that makes the whole area feel like the natural heartbeat of the city.

Exploring the beaches added a different kind of energy. Manly had a relaxed and easygoing vibe, the kind of place where you can wander between cafés and the shoreline without ever feeling rushed. Bondi felt iconic in its own right, with its long curve of sand and the steady rhythm of surfers catching waves. Both places made it clear why Sydney’s coastal lifestyle is such a big part of its identity.

One of the biggest highlights was Newtown. The neighbourhood had exactly the kind of atmosphere I enjoy, lively streets, countless restaurants, and a creative edge that made it feel both casual and full of character. It was the kind of area where you could spend an entire evening just walking, eating, and soaking in the vibe.

Sydney managed to be everything I hoped for. It was vibrant, scenic, and full of small surprises. As a long anticipated stop, it set the tone for the rest of my time in Australia in the best possible way.

Sights

Street Art