Capture Sydney’s 32 most insta-worthy places
One of the world’s picture perfect cities, Sydney offers instagrammable moments at every turn. From her sparkling natural harbour to the man made attractions that adorn it, ornate buildings and modern edges, hidden secrets to fine dining, there are so many photo opportunities to put on your grid when you visit Sydney for a conference or incentive program. We’ve started with 32 places for you to capture around the city and beyond.
1. From atop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge is a must do experience when you are in Sydney. The views are incredible at any time of day - from an early morning climb when the sunrise creeps over the horizon in the east to a sunset climb when the sunset puts a golden glow across the city and the harbour. It's the place for a birdseye view of the harbour, the top of the Sydney Opera House and the city as you climb to the pinnacle of the world’s largest single span bridge. A BridgeClimb experience is a must for groups or you can do it on your own. For safety reasons, you can’t take snaps with your own camera, but your guide will take many photos that you can share on your social media after the experience. @bridgeclimb
2. Sydney Opera House
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed attraction on Sydney Harbour, described as a ‘great urban sculpture’, this 20th century architectural masterpiece is revered the world over. The Sydney Opera House is oh so unique, and photogenic, from any angle. Take a selfie under the sails on the steps, capture the pearly white sails from the harbour side concourse or from the adjacent Botanic Gardens. Get the best frames of the front of the building when you sail past on Sydney Harbour or capture the sails flooded in Indigenous art and colour under the night sky during Vivid from late May to mid June each year. If you walk to the harbourside steps at the end of the concourse you might capture the wild seal, Benny, who is frequently found basking in the sun there. @sydneyoperahouse
3. On your plate
Sydney’s reputation for fine dining is renowned with harbourside restaurants such as Peter Gilmore’s Bennelong in the Sydney Opera House or Quay at the edge of the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Matt Moran’s Aria restaurant on the edge of the city centre with its the curvaceous dining room looks out to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House or Oncore by Clare Smyth, currently in the World’s Top 100 Restaurants list, is located on Level 26 Crown Towers in Barangaroo overlooking Sydney Harbour from Darling Harbour. While the views from each will amaze and delight, each of these accoladed chefs’ menus showcases Sydney’s fresh local produce, served at the pinnacle of fine dining. Every plate on your table is instagrammable!
4. The Queen Victoria Building
Occupying a whole block on George Street in Sydney’s city centre, the heritage-listed late 19th century Queen Victoria Building is home to 140 fashion jewellery, and specialty stores over five levels. Known locally as the QVB, the Romanesque architectural features showcase elaborate stained-glass windows, light filled atriums and at its centre, a magnificent dome. Elaborate balustrades and Art Deco modelling, colourful tiled floors and old-fashioned lifts, arched walls and bold painted walls are features that have been added throughout the building’s history. Inside and out, the QVB is a photographer’s dream. @theqvb
5. The Art Gallery of NSW
Art, and two incredible buildings come together to create the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Explore the 150 year old Georgian style gallery which has pride of place in Sydney’s history, while adjacent, an expansive contemporary gallery has drawn accolades the world over. Discover Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture; visit the exhibition of Australia’s coveted Archibald prize for portraiture, and explore modern art and the decommissioned oil tanker that has been transformed into an incredible gallery space in the contemporary North Building. Wrapped in the green spaces of the Domain and the botanic gardens, the Art Gallery of NSW is a cultural attraction not to be missed. @artgalleryofnsw
6. On the water
There is no better place to capture instagrammable moments than aboard a superyacht, sailing on Sydney Harbour. Meet The Jackson, a luxury three-deck superyacht with a top deck bar, restaurant, private dining spaces and decks for uninterrupted harbour views. Consider booking a private space for 30 or 70 guests with access to the open bow balcony or exclusive use for up to 500 guests. Capture uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour and all her attractions from the open decks, your background changing as the hues of daylight transform into a glittering skyline. @thejacksonsydney
7. From the city’s tallest tower
Head up Sydney Tower in the centre of the city to Bar 83, named for its location 83 storeys above street level. When you step out of the lift, prepare to be wowed by the vibrant retro red and white décor, matched only by the 360-degree views of Sydney and the city’s surrounds through the floor to ceiling windows. This is the place to enjoy cocktails with a colleague or to host a cocktail function for a networking event. An impressive list of cocktails and Australian wines is matched by the canapés created from fresh local and seasonal produce. By day or night Bar 83 offers sunlit or glittering city views to capture, while the rich colourful decor is the perfect backdrop for your selfies and group shots. @bar83sydneytower
8. The Calyx
Nestled in Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden is a unique venue with a botanical twist, The Calyx. As you approach across the manicured lawns, the circular steel structure creates an elegant scene by day or lit up at night. Embraced within is a terrace complete with a circular moat and island at its centre. Inside, discover an impressive arc greenhouse exhibition - the largest vertical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. Providing a live botanic backdrop of up to 20,000 plants punctuated with planted pots along the floor, a perfect backdrop for group shots and selfies. It's also a special event venue, ideal for a networking event or a dinner. #rgbsydney
9. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Wander through the Sydney Botanic Gardens or along the foreshore walk via the Opera House to The Domain where you will find a convict-carved sandstone bench created for the wife of the Governor of the then British colony, Mrs (Lady) Macquarie. Located on a peninsula overlooking Sydney Harbour, history states Mrs Macquarie would sit here watching for British sailing ships to arrive. The seat itself faces north-east toward where harbour views take in Fort Dennison, while vistas to the west give iconic insta worthy views of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge that can be captured in a single frame, not to mention harbour life which abounds with Sydney Ferries, yachts and cruise ships.
10. Luna Park
Cross Sydney Harbour to Milsons Point to the welcoming laughing face that is the façade at Luna Park. Placed between two Art Deco-style towers with spires imitating New York's Chrysler Building, this is the entrance to the heritage-listed amusement park, one of only two in the world protected by government legislation, as a place for fun. Step to the left of the entrance to capture the façade and the ferris wheel. Inside, take a ride on the world’s first double launch single rail coaster and play traditional fair side games in the Art Deco Coney Island. Luna Park can be hired for gala and corporate events. @lunaparksydney
11. Bondi Icebergs
One of the most instagrammable vistas in Sydney is Bondi Icebergs, at iconic Bondi Beach. These Bondi Baths have been a much photographed landmark for more than 100 years. Starting or ending the day with a swim in this ocean-filled Olympic pool, is a daily experience enjoyed by locals. It is a photographer’s dream, here you can set your camera up to capture the hues of ocean blues bathed in the rays of first light, or send your drone up to capture the full view from above. A place of community, “Icebergers” swim year round and revel in the waves that spill into the pool from the ocean. Swim, have a sauna and then dine above at the Icebergs Fine Dining Italian Restaurant, overlooking the expanse of Bondi Beach. @icebergsclub
12. The Grounds of Alexandria
Take a disused heritage warehouse space in Sydney’s inner west and turn it into a dining destination embraced by gardens and greenery. Welcome to The Grounds of Alexandria. Here you will find the The Potting Shed, a rustic restaurant ensconced in greenery, the Garden Bar & BBQ and The Grounds Cafe for hearty breakfasts, coffee and lunch. An eclectic array of installations enliven your experience of this popular Sydney venue. There are quaint corners and archways and a plethora of instagrammable moments. Looking for an event space? The Grounds of Alexandria is also home to an array of unique private event spaces.
13. The Strand Arcade
More than 130 years of high end fashion, Australian designers, jewellery and milliners, cafes and restaurants, chocolate and the family owned Nut Shop have created the ambience of the Strand Arcade. The heritage-listed arcade has three levels of insta worthy gorgeousness, from the cedar fronted shops, intricate tiled floors, elevated roof and balconies adorned with ornate iron work. Enter via the Pitt Street Mall or George Street to delight in one of Sydney’s much-loved heritage landmarks, an oasis from the busy city streets. Decorated from ceiling to floor at Christmas you can take a photo from any level to capture the grandeur of times gone by. @strandarcade
14. Opera Bar
It doesn't get more Sydney than capturing the quintessential view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from the Opera Bar, on the lower concourse of the Sydney Opera House. Here locals and tourists alike meet to celebrate Sydney. Book your table for views directly across the sparkling waters of the harbour, while behind and above the Sydney Opera House sails glitter in the sunlight or glow elegantly under the night sky. Watch ferries dart in and out of Circular Quay and cruise ships dock and depart from the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Witness the outdoor light shows during Vivid, the city’s annual winter festival held during May and June or the spectacular display of fireworks on New Years Eve. @operabarsydney
15. Forgotten Songs in Angel Place
Step into Angel Place off George Street to be captivated by the thought provoking installation that is Forgotten Songs. A canopy of 50 birdcages of different size and design hangs over the laneway to commemorate the songs of birds no longer heard in central Sydney. Changing from dawn to dusk recalls the daylight and nocturnal birds. There are many ways to capture this poignant scene. On sunny days the birdcages cast a shadow on the laneway tiles and against the neutral walls of the building on one side, or the burnished façade opposite. Capture them from beneath with the sky above and put “Sound on” to make a video for your Sydney reel.
16. North Sydney Olympic Pool
Creating an illusion that you are swimming under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the North Sydney Olympic Pool is an iconic swimming destination on the north side of the city. Cross the harbour by ferry or train to Milsons Point to spend time poolside or get in some laps for the day in the pristine 50-metre heated outdoor pool. Bask in the Art Deco design of the pool’s surrounds and enjoy the gym or indoor pool for wintery days before you breakfast with a priceless background of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Just another uniquely Sydney experience enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, next door to Luna Park. #northsydneyolympicpool
17. Blooming jacarandas in Kirribilli
Heralding in the Sydney summer, blooming Jacarandas draw photographers and sightseers in crowds to the quiet streets of Kirribilli on the lower north shore each October. Catch a train to Milsons Point and then a short walk to find McDougall Street. Capture the riot of purple blooms that cover the trees and carpet the roads with their petals. Here, the Jacaranda trees line both sides of the street to create a canopy of purple blooms, shading the street. It's a stunning display of spring and reputed to be the most photographed street in Sydney at this time of year.
18. Watsons Bay
Take a ferry across the harbour to Watsons Bay, a favourite spot for locals to picnic, enjoy a drink or a meal at the Watsons Bay Hotel or dine on seafood at Doyles. Then, meander through narrow streets filled with quaint fisherman’s cottages interspersed with new designer builds to Camp Cove, named so as this is where the First Fleet of British soldiers and convicts camped on arrival to established Britain’s penal settlement. This crescent beach is popular with the locals and its gentle waters make it an ideal spot for a swim.
19. Hornby Lighthouse
At the northern end of Camp Cove, in Watsons Bay, is a pathway through the Sydney Harbour National Park that takes you past armaments from World War Two, Lady Bay, rugged rock faces, to stunning views across the opening to Sydney Harbour to North Head and the ocean. Just around the corner is the pretty Hornby Lighthouse, colouring the landscape with its red and white stripes. So many instagrammable moments on this easy, picturesque walk.
20. Taronga Zoo
Located on the north shore of the city Taronga Zoo is the place to go to see animals, including Australia’s wildlife, enjoy events and take in the stunning views across Sydney Harbour. Ride the gondola over the zoo to get a birds eye view of the animals while also capturing views of Sydney harbour in all its glory. The Giraffe enclosure has a backdrop of signature views across the harbour as do the many lawns and event spaces that can be booked for exclusive use by small and large groups. Add to your instagram moments when you take a ferry or water taxi across Sydney Harbour to the zoo. @TarongaZoo
21. The Chinese Gardens of Friendship
Nestled in the southern end of Darling Harbour, a short walk from ICC Sydney is The Chinese Garden of Friendship, a traditional landscaped Chinese water garden. Enter through the pavilion to discover the serene, feng shui-designed and manicured garden of friendship, where tranquillity, nature and culture intertwine. Explore winding pathways dotted with traditional pagodas adorned with red lanterns windows that frame serene scenes. Discover lily ponds, shaded trees and chinese sculptures, the koi pond, a magnificent weeping willow and the waterfall. @chinesegardenoffriendshipsyd
22. Blu Bar on 36 - Shangri-la Sydney
You’d think the beauty of Sydney harbour might fade into the background as locals go about their lives, but at all! A favourite place to catch up with friends is Blu Bar on 36 at the Shangri-La Sydney. Located in the historic Rocks precinct, head to the 36th floor to enjoy a range of sassy cocktails overlooking the best of Sydney Harbour’s natural beauty and man made attractions. Here you can catch up on the day’s events with cold drinks, dine or enjoy a high tea, perched high above the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, the views are iconic, especially at sunset. #blubaron36
23. The sand dunes at Stockton
The spectacular Stockton Bight Sand Dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands in Port Stephens are the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Sand Dune Adventures can take you (and your incentive group) on an exhilarating 1.5 hour guided quad bike tour across the dunes to sand board. Your Indigenous guide will provide insight into the culture of the Worimi people who have cared for the dunes for generations. Indigenous experiences, quad biking, horse riding are all possible here. A short drive from the Hunter Valley, put this special place on your list of things to do. @sand_dune_adventures
24. Sunset on Hermitage Road, Pokolbin Hunter Valley
Wander through the vines and sample Hunter Valley wines along Hermitage Road in Pokolbin. You will find plenty of wineries with cellar doors and dining such as Keith Tulloch Wines, Glandore Estate Wines, Thomas Wines as well as the 4 Pines at the Farm brewery, to name a few. Here, captivating views capture a pentagon of vines and the Brokenback Range standing tall in the background. Take a winery tour, hire a bike or book a horse-riding tour and stay in comfort at Spicers Vineyard Estate.
25. Blue Mountains National Park
Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, immerse in the natural beauty of the World Heritage-Listed Blue Mountains National Park. Head to the Echo Point lookout, near Katoomba, to breathe in the blue haze of the Eucalyptus forest and capture panoramic views of Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters, a towering sandstone formation and sacred Aboriginal site. Learn about local lore and culture on a guided tour with traditional owners at Scenic World and be enthralled by dramatic views on the world's steepest railway, or capture an aerial view from 270 metres above the rainforest canopy from the open rooftop of the Skyway cable car. @scenicworld-aus
26. Up close to a Koala at Featherdale Wildlife Park
Whether you go there alone or as part of a group, Featherdale Wildlife Park is surrounded by native bushland and offers encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife. Explore seven acres of native bushland, and discover 260 species of Australian wildlife. Have your photo taken with a koala, join a mob of kangaroos at feeding time, meet happy quokkas and get up close to Australia’s little penguins. Featherdale is home to more than 2000 Australian animals. Join expert keepers to learn about our incredible wildlife; you can even take a session on wildlife photography. A short drive from Sydney, incentive planners can book events for groups here, for exclusive experiences and expert talks. @featherdalewildlifepark
27. On a Ferry to Manly
A quintessential Sydney experience is to hop aboard a Sydney Ferry and criss-cross the harbour like a local. The Manly Ferry and route is iconic. Cruise the length of Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay, past the Sydney Opera House on one side and Kirribilli House (the Sydney residence of the Prime Minister) on the other. You’ll pass Bradleys Head, and harbour islands such as Fort Denison, Garden Island, Shark Island and Clark Island. Spot the pretty beaches that line both sides of the harbour foreshore as you approach South Head, before arriving at Manly Wharf. Watch for dolphins and the colony of little penguins along the northside of the Harbour. So many scenes to capture for your grid! When you arrive in Manly, walk through the Corso to find expansive Manly Beach - gaining best beach accolades in 2024. Take a direct route or consider a hop-on-hop-off ferry that also stops at Watsons Bay on South Head.
28. Sculpture by the sea
Each year from mid October to early November the coastal walk from Bondi to Tamarama is transformed into the world’s largest free public sculpture exhibition, Sculpture by the Sea. The two kilometre walk, already filled with twists and turns of photographic natural beauty and ocean, is dotted with more than 100 sculptures created by Australian and international artists. The exhibition accepts sculptures of all types, forms, materials and size, creating a wealth of artworks placed alongside the backdrop of this spectacular coastal trail. Attracting up to half a million people each year, avoid crowds with an early start and capture the sun rising over the east coast at the same time. @sculpturebythesea
29. Vivid Sydney
If you are heading into Sydney during late May or early June, you will experience Vivid, a light show like no other that floods the city precincts and Sydney Harbour with verve and colour. Watch artwork displays take over the façades of the city’s buildings and immerse and interact with glittering art installations dotted around the city in the largest festival of light, music and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere. After dark, the sails of the Sydney Opera House become the palette for visual art as light beams dart across to the Sydney Harbour bridge, creating a rainbow of colour across Sydney Harbour, and reflected on the water. It is a unique event on the Sydney festival calendar, visited by more than 3.4million people in 2023. @VividSydney
30. The rainbow heart of Sydney
Oxford Street and Taylor Square, in inner city Darlinghurst, form the heart of the Pride community in Sydney. Each year in early March, the street comes alive with a spectacular display of colour, energy and creativity that is the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. More than 12,000 join the parade, while locals celebrate the event streetside, from bars and vantage points along the route. What started as a protest march more than 45 years ago has become a celebration of the Pride community, enjoyed by all. At Taylor Square, any time of year, step out on the Rainbow Crossing, a permanent tribute to the Darlinghurst area’s links with LGBTIQ communities. Do you know the colours? Orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for art and magic and violet for serenity. Caption that on your instagram post. @sydneymardigras
31. Ancient rock art
Find ancient Indigenous art, preserved in nature in various locations around Sydney. Day trippers to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park adjacent to the Northern Beaches can witness rock carvings on the 4.4 km Aboriginal Heritage walk. On the east side of Sydney, on the Bondi to Bronte walk, spot an engraving of a majestic whale and two fish just off the path at Mckenzies Bay, between Bondi and Tamarama. There are a number of rock carvings in this area. On the other side of Bondi Beach at the top of the North Bondi cliffs there is an entire art gallery of engravings; the remains of a sacred ceremonial site.
32. Modern street art
Local communities around Sydney city and the Sydney City Council pay homage to traditional owners through the creation of modern street art. In Woolloomooloo, the Woolloomooloolife mural depicts the suburb's development starting with First Nation peoples, in a loose linear depiction of the waves of immigrants who have settled in the area. In the inner Welcome to Redfern is a striking mural covering an entire terrace house in Redfern at the corner of Caroline and Hugo Streets. In Darling Square, on the side of the Novotel Building is the portrait of Wiradjuri Elder, Jenny Munro revered for her activism for First Nations people. On pillars near ICC Sydney the series of Harbour Veins by Yukupin (Toby Bishop), celebrate the beauty of the harbour. These are two of the public artworks found on the instagrammable Great Darling Harbour Art Trail.
