Craving a Sydney adventure but sick of tour groups and rigid schedules? Just book a car from Drive mate, and you're the captain of your own ship, cruising through coastal drives and city streets with the wind in your hair and the beats pumping. We're all about giving you the Best cars, at best rental car prices, flexibility, and friendly service, so you can focus on creating memories that'll stick like Vegemite to your soul!
Top 10 adventures that'll make your Sydney trip unforgettable:
1. Hike the Bondi to Bronte Coasty:
Lace up your boots and tackle this iconic 2.5 km (One way) cliff-hugging path. Soak in the panoramic views of the Pacific ocean, hidden coves, and you may see some whales as well! Snap Insta-worthy pics, breathe in the salty air, and let the sun kiss your skin – it's the perfect way to kick off your Sydney adventure. Refuel with a flat white at a seaside cafe and watch the surfers paint the waves with their fins.
Parking -
Bondi Beach has two dedicated car parks within walking distance. However, arrive early, as these spots disappear quickly on Sundays and public holidays. Alternatively, you can try your luck with free street parking further down the coast, although availability is limited.
2. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge:
Conquer your fears and witness Sydney from a heart-stopping perspective with a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. This iconic landmark isn't just a bridge, it's an adventure that'll have you scaling steel giants and gazing at the Opera House and cityscape sprawled beneath you. Feel the wind whip through your hair and remember, if you can conquer the bridge, you can conquer anything!
Things you must know before climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge
1. How long does the climb take?
Climb times vary between 2.5 and 3.5 hours depending on your chosen route and your speed.
2. What footwear should I wear?
For your safety and comfort, choose comfortable, enclosed shoes with rubber soles. Think running, sport, or hiking footwear.
3. Where can I park?
There are multiple convenient parking options are available right at the Climb Base in The Rocks, located at 3 Cumberland Street.
4. Am I allowed to take video camera?
The organizers do not allow cameras including phone, to avoid it falling below, they have lockers to store them.
3. Kayak Through Sydney Harbour:
Climbing to great heights not your thing? How about the tranquil waters of Sydney Harbour? Rent a kayak and paddle past the majestic Opera House and under the Harbour Bridge, feeling the city pulse around you. Keep your eyes peeled for cheeky penguins and playful dolphins – the harbour is teeming with life! There are multiple options to choose from this is an activity we would not miss! Afterwards, reward yourself with fresh seafood at a harbourside restaurant – you deserve it!
4. Explore The Rocks & Circular Quay:
History buffs, this one's for you! The Rocks is Sydney's oldest area, a mix of charming lanes and sandstone buildings whispering tales of convicts and colonial times. Get lost in the alleys, browse quirky shops, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. In Circular Quay, hop on a ferry to nearby islands like Taronga Zoo or Fort Denison – the possibilities are endless! You can rent a car like a VW Polo or a Mitsubishi Mirage, perfect for navigating narrow streets and parking in tight spaces, leaving you more time to soak up the history.
Know before you go -
1. When to Visit:
For bustling markets: Friday (Foodie Market) and Saturday & Sunday (Rocks Markets).
For a vibrant local scene: Anytime! The Rocks always has something going on.
2. Festivals & Celebrations: Expect larger crowds for holidays like Australia Day and New Year's Eve.
Bonus tips :
Consider grabbing a coffee or snack at a local cafe – the Rocks has hidden gems galore.
Bonus tip - Start your journey at The Rocks Discovery Museum – you will get a better insight into the entire area.
5. Get Your Culture Fix at the Art Gallery of NSW:
The Art Gallery of NSW houses of artistic wonder, from Indigenous Australian masterpieces to international contemporary collections. Wander through the halls, let your imagination soar, and get lost in different worlds. You can enjoy, all kinds of art, from movies, music, spoken word, and so much more, best part ? Admission is free!
Know before you go :
Opening Hours:
Open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. Wednesdays have extended hours until 10 pm.
Location:
Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
Near the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain, close to St Mary’s Cathedral, you can also use GPS for directions.
Parking:
Meter parking is available on Mrs Macquaries Road and nearby streets.
There are several parking stations nearby, including the Domain Car Park and The Wharf.
6. Shop 'til You Drop at Paddy's Markets:
Craving a dose of vibrant chaos and unique finds? May we suggest Paddy's Markets, a sprawling bazaar of over 800 stalls overflowing with everything from handmade crafts and souvenirs to fresh produce and vintage treasures. Unleash your inner bargain hunter, and soak up the multicultural buzz. Fuel up with a delicious meat pie from Harry's Cafe de Wheels – it's a Sydney institution!
7. Discover Hidden Gems in Surry Hills:
Escape the tourist trail and delve into the hipster haven of Surry Hills. Explore quaint laneways lined with independent boutiques, trendy cafes serving up specialty coffee, and street art that pops with color. Fuel your Instagram addiction with the vibrant murals, grab a latte at a hole-in-the-wall cafe, and browse for unique threads at vintage stores.
Also read - Making Memorable Adventures: Road Trip Safety Essentials in Australia
8. Hike to Manly Beach and Watch the Sunset:
Lace up those boots again and trek through the scenic North Head nature reserve to reach Manly Beach. This idyllic stretch of sand is the perfect place to soak up the sun, swim in turquoise waters, and learn to surf. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues, find a perfect spot on the sand and soak in the magic. Dine on fresh seafood at a Manly beachfront restaurant and watch the surfers paint the waves one last time – it's a sunset you won't forget.
9. Spend a day at Luna Park:
Take a trip back in time at Luna Park, Sydney's iconic amusement park on Milsons Point. Ride the vintage Ferris wheel for breathtaking harbour views, scream your lungs out on the Coney Island-style Cyclone rollercoaster, and test your skills at arcade games. Grab a hot dog and fairy floss, relive your childhood dreams, and let loose!
Know before you go :
Location
A: Luna Park Sydney is situated at 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point, Sydney.
Parking at Luna Park
A: The most popular choice is our secure parking facility with over 380 spaces and direct lift access to the Park. It can be can be accessed via Dind Street, turning left onto Northcliff Street, Milsons Point
The parking rates are as follows:
- 0-1 hour: $8
- 1-2 hours: $15
- 2-3 hours: $30
- 3+ hours: $49
These fees apply per 24-hour period, and the maximum vehicle height allowed is 1.9 meters. Please note the entry hours are between 7 am - 12 am and exit hours are between 7 am - 3 am.
Operating hours
A: Luna Park's open days vary based on the time of the year. Generally, the park operates from Thursday to Sunday, starting around 11 am, with closing times differing between weekends and weekdays. You can find detailed opening hours on the "Opening hours" tab at the Luna Park Sydney website.
Time spent on average
The time you spend at Luna Park depends on your preferences, but on average, visitors usually spend around 4 hours exploring and enjoying the various attractions.
Also read: Car Sharing vs Car Rental - Which is better?
10. Escape to the Blue Mountains:
For a taste of nature's majesty, a day trip to the Blue Mountains is a must. Hike through eucalyptus forests, witness breathtaking waterfalls like Katoomba Falls, and take in the scenic panorama from Echo Point. Spot cheeky parrots, explore Jenolan Caves, and marvel at the Three Sisters rock formation. If you're feeling adventurous, take the thrilling Scenic Railway – it's a journey you won't forget! Drive mate's versatile SUVs like the Mitsubishi Outlander offer comfort and space for your Blue Mountains adventure, plus enough room for hiking gear and picnic supplies.
Also read - Making Memorable Adventures: Road Trip Safety Essentials in Australia
Remember, this is just a taste of the epic adventures that await you when you visit Sydney. With Drive mate as your car rental, you can explore the beautiful city at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and create memories that'll last a lifetime. So, grab your sunglasses, pack your sense of adventure, book a car from Drive mate & hit the road – Sydney's waiting for you!
