Top 10 Unusual Things To Do in Sydney

Get off the beaten track and enjoy a surprising side to Sydney with this round up of unusual things to do in the city.

Tavel by seaplane and by ferry, climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge, bowl with the locals and relax with voodoo-inspired cocktails: it’s time for a different kind of Sydney adventure!

Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, 14-28 Ultimo Road, Ultimo

How can we describe the Dr Chau Chak Wing Building? Imagine a ten-storey crumpled paper bag in the middle of a street. Its beautiful brown facade is twisted and warped, covered with bricks (more than 320,000 of them, laid by hand!) and dotted with large windows. It all combines to create a genuine impression of movement. We recommend checking it out for yourself!

Cockatoo Island, ferries from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Barangaroo

It’s been used as a jail and a shipyard: Cockatoo Island is a small piece of Australian history. With its huge abandoned hangars and incredible views of Sydney at sunset, this place is a photographer’s paradise. It’s an ideal spot to while away a day, far from the hustle and bustle of the city play a game of tennis or basketball or sit out on one of the lovely restaurant terraces.

Clovelly Bowling Club, 1 Ocean St, Clovelly

Fancy a game of lawn bowls with your friends? It’s the ultimate sociable game, played on Clovelly’s manicured lawns with a breathtaking view of the ocean! It’s the perfect opportunity to spend a Sunday outdoors and enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue too.

Papa Gede’s, 348 Kent Street, Sydney

The Zombie and Devil's Letters: there’s a definite black magic feel to Papa Gede’s. Sit yourself down at this cocktail bar, renowned throughout the city, and be transported as you sip one of its deliciously colourful drinks.

Bridge Climb, daily departure, 3 Cumberland Street, The Rocks

Imagine this: it’s night time, you’re standing on a metal column which is 134m high with a view of skyscrapers, Sydney Opera House, and the harbour. Take a deep breath, because it’s time to climb the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. Once your harness has been fitted and you’ve been briefed by a guide, the climb takes about 3.5 hours — then it’s time to enjoy the unforgettable panorama. You have to earn these superb views!

Carriageworks Farmers Market, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh

There’s nothing better than waking up, walking to the markets, and being greeted by the delicious smells of the food stalls. At the Carriageworks Farmers Market on Saturday mornings, local organic producers sell their wares. With plenty of stalls to choose from, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for: a delicious organic brunch to start the day.

Sydney Seaplanes, Lyne Park, Rose Bay

Just like Indiana Jones on a city break, climb aboard a seaplane, take off and leave the waves behind you as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city and its bay. With Sydney Seaplanes, fly over the coast to Bondi Beach, before landing on Shark Island to enjoy a delicious picnic. This unforgettable experience comes to an end as you make your way back to Rose Bay by boat.

Sydney Dance Company, The Wharf, Pier 4, 15 Hickson Road, Sydney

Why not take advantage of your trip to learn a few steps from real professionals? The Sydney Dance Company, a contemporary dance company with a global reputation, offers classes for all levels. Jazz, tap, yoga, hip hop: take your pick. The added extra: dance classes are held in renovated warehouse studios in the Wharf, Sydney’s artiest neighbourhood, with a decidedly bohemian atmosphere and a bonus view of the city’s harbour too.

You’ll love Bundeena beach, just an hour away by train and ferry. It’s incredibly peaceful and is the perfect place to recharge your batteries before hiking the Coast Track. This beautiful rocky trail makes its way through Sydney's Royal National Park and offers incredible sea views. It’s a real breath of fresh air before you continue exploring our top 10 unusual places to visit in Sydney.

Bare Island, La Pérouse, Sydney

This small island can only be reached on foot from the beautiful Congwong Beach, making it a paradise for fans of diving. Get up close with multi-coloured fish, seahorses, and other incredible marine life, just minutes from the centre of Sydney. If you’re more of a landlubber, take the time to visit the old military fort where you can enjoy a superb view of the city.