Interested in backpacking Sydney, this blog will give you a great idea of some great activities, places to stay, and work options for longer stays. Sydney should be on the list for every backpacker interested in visiting Australia. Thousands of backpackers descend on Sydney every year and explore the wonders this city has to offer. Based on the East Coast, Sydney is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the East Coast and shows Australia in a different light than other major Australian cities like Melbourne and Brisbane.
Backpacking Sydney – What To Do While You’re Here
Sydney is a backpacker’s dream, with activities for everyone. Top of most backpackers’ lists will be the iconic buildings, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and The Harbour Bridge. These are must-see sites for backpackers and offer an insight into life in Sydney. The Sydney Opera House was built in 1973 and is home to numerous shows such as concerts, symphony performances, and choir performances. It is worth a visit especially if you can book a concert. The Sydney Harbour Bridge was constructed in 1932 and has been used ever since. When visiting the Harbour Bridge it is possible to take a tour and climb the bridge which is extremely exciting. For more information on this see here! It is also a great idea to explore the Harbour as well and learn more about this iconic structure.
Another option for visitors backpacking Sydney is to embrace the coastal walks available. A popular walk is from the world-famous Bondi Beach to Coogee. A 6km walk along pristine coastline showcases beautiful cliffs, rockpools, bays and beaches. There are activities to do in and out of the water, with skate parks, scuba diving, surfing and restaurants. For more information see here.
Exploring Sydney and ‘The Rocks’ is an exciting activity for backpackers. ‘The Rocks’ are the birthplace of modern Sydney and where the British Settlers first arrived. It is a historic precinct in Sydney. The Rocks are a 5-minute walk from Circular Quay train station or a 10-minute walk from Wynyard Station. There are plenty of walking tours for backpackers looking to learn about the area. There are markets every Saturday and Sunday which offer food, music and art. With a relaxed vibe through the markets, The Rocks are the place to visit to kick off your weekend! For more information see here.
Backpacking Sydney – Where To Stay
If you’re backpacking Sydney on a budget the ideal hostel for you is Original Backpackers Sydney. This hostel was rated the number 1 best value hostel in Sydney. Located in Kingscross, it is in a prime location for the best bars, clubs and restaurants, just a 1-minute walk from the train station. This hostel offers secure parking for your cars or camper vans for $25 a day. With free breakfast, access to free sports equipment and also help to find a job, Original Backpackers Sydney is a great spot to stay. They offer single rooms up to dorms of 10, with both mixed and female-only options. For more information see here.
For visitors looking for a more party-based hostel, the best hotel in Sydney is Mad Monkey Bayswater. Located in Kingscross next to all the best bars, clubs and restaurants but on a nice quiet private street. The hostel hosts events every night making it one of the best social hostels available. Offering free local gym access and free yoga on the pristine rooftop, Mad Money also offers something for fitness fanatics. The hostel offers female-only and mixed dorms for up to 10 people which is ideal if travelling alone or in larger groups. For more information see here.
The Sydney Harbour YHA is another fantastic option for those backpacking Sydney. It is the only hostel located in ‘The Rocks’ making it stand out on its own. Located minutes from the Sydney Opera House, The Harbour and Harbour Bridge, the YHA is in the prime location to see Sydney’s iconic sites. Unwind after a hard day of exploring with a state-of-the-art rooftop offering panoramic views of the city. The hostel offers a games room and a grocery store onsite. They also offer help with finding jobs using their site, see here. For more information on The Sydney Harbour YHA see here.
Looking For Work In Sydney?
For those backpacking Sydney for longer periods, finding a job might be top of your list when you arrive. Backpackers will find work available in construction. To qualify for a job in construction as a laborer for example, you must hold your white card. Another option is to get a role in a bar or restaurant, with many bars and restaurants often looking for casual workers there is plenty of work. Casual work is when workers get paid a slightly higher hourly rate in exchange for not getting paid for holidays or sick leave. These are more flexible jobs that are not full-time but can provide full-time hours. To work in a bar or restaurant it is recommended to get your RSA, see here. You may also want to complete a barista course if that is something that interests you or do both at the same time, see here.
Backpacking Sydney – A Conclusion
Backpacking Sydney is a must for all backpackers in Australia. With amazing coastal walks and iconic buildings, there is plenty to do in Sydney. Enjoy Sydney’s beautiful landscapes and iconic buildings before continuing on with your travels! For those of you who love the idea of visiting Sydney, Melbourne is another great city to visit. For more information on Melbourne see here. The West Coast of Australia also offers a different vibe for backpackers and I would recommend visiting Perth and in particular Fremantle for a look at a colonial town. For more information on Fremantle and how to see the Instagram famous Quakkas see here.