The walking tours of Sydney cut straight to the heart of Australia’s largest city, offering practical ways to experience its top sights and local culture. The most worthwhile options include the historic Rocks district tour (perfect for understanding Sydney’s convict foundations), and the excellent Opera House tour that gets you up-close with this architectural marvel.
I’m especially fond of the Chinatown food walks – they’re well-paced and include generous tastings at family-run spots you’d never find on your own. For nature lovers, the guided walks spotting wild kangaroos just outside the city provide an authentic Aussie experience without the tourist crowds.
Let’s explore the very best walking tours Sydney has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Museum Tour offers behind-the-scenes access to the iconic sporting venue and exploration of the SCG Museum.
- The Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour explores the city’s convict past and the historic Rocks neighborhood with a local crime historian.
- The Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour covers 4km of iconic landmarks with a complimentary refreshment and snack, and is stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
- The Sydney’s Chinatown Food and Stories Walking Tour provides a culinary journey through Sydney’s vibrant Chinatown with a high traveler recommendation rate.
- The Local Sydney Walking Tour explores three inner-city neighborhoods and offers insights into Aboriginal and colonial history, as well as Aussie slang and classic Australian snacks.
Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Museum Walking Tour
The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and Museum walking tour offers visitors an immersive behind-the-scenes experience at one of Australia’s most iconic sporting venues. This 1.5-hour tour, led by a live English-speaking guide, provides exclusive access to areas like the field of play, player’s dressing rooms, and the historic members reserve.
Guests can also explore the SCG Museum, home to a trove of sporting treasures and memorabilia. Booking is easy, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 378 reviews, this tour is a must-do for sports enthusiasts visiting Sydney.
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Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour Led by Historian
Convicts and The Rocks: Sydney’s Walking Tour Led by Historian offers a captivating exploration of Sydney’s convict past and the historic neighborhood of The Rocks. Led by a local Sydney crime historian, the 2.5-hour walking tour covers approximately 20 historic sites and stories, providing a unique perspective on the city’s rich history.
Highlights include a visit inside Customs House to see a scale model of Sydney and the tour’s conclusion beside historic pubs and cafes in The Rocks. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and has received a Badge of Excellence, making it a must-do activity for anyone interested in Sydney’s heritage.
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Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour
Embarking on the Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and heritage. With 175 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this small-group tour promises an immersive exploration of Sydney’s colonial past and its impact on Indigenous peoples.
Beginning at Customs House, the tour covers 4km, including stops at iconic landmarks. Participants can enjoy a complimentary craft beer, soft drink or juice, and a classic Australian snack, while also receiving a handy map with recommendations. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Suitable for adults, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or children under 12.
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Sydney’s Chinatown Food and Stories Walking Tour
Offering a captivating culinary journey through Sydney’s vibrant Chinatown, the Sydney’s Chinatown Food and Stories Walking Tour immerses participants in the rich cultural tapestry of this dynamic neighborhood. With 99% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Chinese regional street food.
During the 4-5 hour experience, guests will savor a variety of delectable snacks while learning about Chinatown’s history and best dining spots from a knowledgeable guide. The tour is wheelchair/stroller accessible and allows a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Convenient pickup and drop-off at Paddy’s Markets make this tour a seamless addition to any Sydney itinerary.
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Local Sydney Walking Tour – Aussie Food, Culture & Coffee
On this Local Sydney Walking Tour – Aussie Food, Culture & Coffee, explorers explore three fascinating inner-city neighborhoods: Pyrmont, Ultimo, and Glebe. A small-group guided tour provides insights into Aboriginal and colonial history, while participants pick up Aussie slang and discover why the area has so many pubs.
Midway, the tour stops at a local café for a coffee or tea, and later, a unique pub for a glass of craft beer. Along the way, adventurers savor 5-6 classic Australian snacks, including Vegemite toast and Tim Tams.
The tour starts at Pyrmont Bridge and ends at the Friend in Hand Hotel, just steps from the Glebe markets. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this wheelchair-accessible tour is a great way to explore Sydney’s local culture.
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Sydney Shore Excursion: Sydney Opera House Walking Tour
The Sydney Shore Excursion: Sydney Opera House Walking Tour provides a captivating 1-hour guided exploration of this iconic architectural masterpiece.
Visitors can expect to explore theaters and access parts not regularly open to the public, with the chance to see rehearsals in progress or walk on stage. Along the way, the guide will share fascinating stories about the controversies during the construction process.
Though not wheelchair accessible due to the 300 stairs on the tour, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. With a capacity limited to 10 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience to discover this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Optional packages include a Tour and Dine experience or a more extensive Backstage Tour.
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Sydney Shore Excursion: The Original Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks
For those seeking an immersive journey into Sydney’s storied past, the Sydney Shore Excursion: The Original Guided Walking Tour of The Rocks stands out as a captivating exploration. This 90-minute guided walk reveals the history of The Rocks, from its convict-built buildings to its heritage sites.
Led by expert guides, guests will admire iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House while learning about the early days of the British colony. The tour includes an umbrella if needed and uses amplification for easy listening. With moderate walking on uneven terrain, this tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all travelers.
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Sydney Small-Group Walking Tour: Discover The Rocks
What better way to explore the historic heart of Sydney than the Sydney Small-Group Walking Tour: Discover The Rocks? This private tour takes visitors on a journey through The Rocks, one of the city’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. With an official guide leading the way, you’ll uncover the area’s rich history and architecture.
The tour is stroller-accessible and near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers. While service animals are allowed, the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible. With 29 positive reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this small-group walking tour is a great way to get an insider’s look at The Rocks.
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Walking With Wild Kangaroos Private Half-Day Trip From Sydney
Departing from Sydney, this private half-day trip allows visitors to venture into the serene natural surroundings and witness the captivating presence of wild kangaroos. Approximately an hour from the city, the tour includes national park fees, a driver/guide, and hotel pickup and dropoff.
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the opportunity to see up to 40 kangaroos and observe their behaviors is a highlight. With no wheelchair access and a waiver required, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a moderate amount of walking.
Departing between 1:45 pm and 5:30 pm, the tour lasts around 4 hours, allowing ample time to immerse in the natural wonder of the kangaroo habitat.
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Small-Group Sydney City Walking Tour
This 3-hour guided walking tour provides an immersive exploration of Sydney’s highlights. Visitors will discover Circular Quay, The Rocks, and Sydney Harbour, while learning about the city’s rich Aboriginal, convict, and colonial history.
The tour includes views of iconic landmarks like Customs House, Parliament House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and Sydney Tower. Guests will enjoy a complimentary coffee, tea, water, or soft drink as they explore the city with a knowledgeable local guide.
With a maximum group size of 12, this tour offers a more personalized experience. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour operates in all weather conditions and is easily accessible by public transportation.
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Sydney Ghost Walking Tour
Venturing from the lively exploration of Sydney’s highlights, the Sydney Ghost Walking Tour offers a chilling glimpse into the city’s haunted past. Over 135 reviews attest to this 1.5-hour experience, guiding visitors through the haunted corners of The Rocks district.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour delves into the history of Sydney’s former slums, burial grounds, sly-grog shops, and opium dens, with entertaining narration. Guests can expect stops for photo opportunities and the tour concludes back at the meeting point, the Observer Hotel.
With a minimum age of 8 and no hotel pickup/drop-off, this ghost walk is a convenient and captivating way to uncover Sydney’s dark and mysterious side.
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Forkabout Sydney Foodie Walking Tour
Foodies flock to the Forkabout Sydney Foodie Walking Tour to savor the city’s diverse culinary delights. This 5-6 hour walking tour showcases Sydney’s best eats and local favorites, from secret menu dishes to cultural history.
Adventurous palates can sample a range of cuisines while learning about the city’s rich culinary landscape. The tour includes alcoholic beverages and departs from the Plaza Ibero American, ending at the Surry Hills Library, just 500m away.
With 100% positive reviews from travelers, this is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Sydney. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious, this tour promises to satisfy your cravings and expand your horizons.
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Balmain Pub Walking Tour
On the Balmain Pub Walking Tour, travelers can enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic Sydney neighborhood. Led by a professional guide, the tour takes visitors to some of Balmain’s most renowned pubs, where they’ll enjoy included beverages and learn about the area’s storied past.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour is suitable for those 18 and older with a moderate fitness level. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized glimpse into Balmain’s lively pub scene. The tour starts at 2:30 pm and ends at the Riverview Hotel, conveniently located near public transportation.
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Bondi Beach Walking Tour With Optional Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
Travelers seeking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Sydney’s most iconic beach can embark on the Bondi Beach Walking Tour. This 1.5-hour tour showcases the highlights of Bondi Beach, including its Aboriginal rock art sites, the Bondi Pavilion, and the renowned Aquabumps Gallery. Guests will learn about the beach’s rich history and how it became a hotspot for celebrities and Bondi Rescue lifeguards.
The tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing it. It includes a local guide and gratuities, and the meeting point is Nio and Tony’s Supermarket in Bondi Beach, with the return point at the southern end of the beach, Bronte Beach, or Coogee Beach, depending on the option chosen.
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Walking With Wild Wombats Private Day Trip From Sydney
A unique wildlife adventure awaits visitors on the Walking With Wild Wombats Private Day Trip from Sydney. This day trip offers the chance to see these adorable marsupials in their natural habitat, just outside the city.
The tour includes national park fees, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable driver/guide. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel, as well as bottled water, are also provided.
Guests should wear enclosed shoes and warm clothes, and bring cameras to capture the wombats. The tour typically runs from 8am to 10pm and lasts 10-11 hours.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
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Private Walangaris Aboriginal Walking Tour in Bondi Beach
Visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Australia’s rich Indigenous culture can embark on the Private Walangaris Aboriginal Walking Tour in Bondi Beach. This immersive experience runs daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, allowing guests to explore the area’s cultural heritage at their own pace.
The tour departs from North Bondi and concludes at the Bondi Pavilion, with a wheelchair-accessible route and tour guide system headsets available. Participants can expect to learn about the Walangaris people’s traditions and connection to the land. Most travelers can join this private tour, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Sydney Hidden Gems Walking Tour
Discover Sydney’s captivating history and hidden gems on this immersive small group walking tour. Explore the city’s oldest neighborhood, The Rocks, and learn about its convict past from an expert guide.
Stop at top landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoy a mid-tour coffee break. The tour ends with a refreshing drink at one of the city’s oldest pubs.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this experience offers an intimate and informative look at Sydney’s rich heritage. Suitable for all fitness levels, the tour is wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation.
Don’t miss this chance to uncover the hidden wonders of this vibrant city.
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Watsons Bay Walking Tour and Surf Lesson at Bondi Beach
This guided Watsons Bay Walking Tour and Surf Lesson at Bondi Beach combines the natural beauty of Sydney’s iconic coastal neighborhoods. The tour includes a lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and a surfing lesson at the famous Bondi Beach. With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions or mobility issues, as it requires a moderate fitness level. Pickup is available from select locations, with a start time of 9:00 am. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour is located near public transportation.
Based on the single 5-star review, this is an excellent way to explore the stunning Watsons Bay and learn to surf at Bondi Beach.
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Discover Bondi Guided Beach And Coastal Walking Tour
The Discover Bondi Guided Beach And Coastal Walking Tour takes travelers on an exclusive inside look at Australia’s oldest Surf Lifesaving Club. Led by a local lifesaver and surf instructor, the tour offers a photo opportunity with Bondi lifesavers and surfing instructors, as well as a guided walk along the Bondi coastal headland. Included in the tour are coffee or tea, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and informative experience, allowing visitors to discover the beauty and history of Bondi Beach.
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Pony Walking Adventure
For an unforgettable equine adventure, the Pony Walking Adventure takes travelers on a leisurely stroll through the picturesque countryside surrounding Galston. Lasting up to an hour, the tour accommodates groups of up to 8 guests and includes a guide, horse handler, and all necessary equipment.
Participants must sign a risk waiver, wear appropriate attire, and be able-bodied. After the tour, guests can enjoy light refreshments. The meeting point is 2 km from Galston village, and the adventure ends back at the starting location.
Bookings are confirmed at the time of purchase, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.
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The Sum Up
Sydney offers a variety of walking tours that let you explore the city’s history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in convict-era landmarks, Chinatown’s culinary delights, or the stunning coastal views, there’s a tour to suit your interests. These tours provide an engaging and immersive way to discover the best of Sydney’s attractions and hidden gems.