7 Days in Australia: Sydney, Blue Mountains and the Coast

Australia is a dream destination for many travelers. With just one week, you can still capture the magic if you base yourself in Sydney and add two unforgettable side trips. Picture yourself sailing past the Opera House at golden hour, hiking among misty eucalyptus forests in the Blue Mountains, and sinking your toes into powder-soft sand along the New South Wales coast. This 7-day Australia itinerary blends icons, local neighborhoods, and coastal escapes into a seamless, highly doable trip that feels both relaxed and rich with highlights.

This guide gives you a day-by-day plan, plus practical tips on transport, accommodations, costs, and safety. It is written to help you plan with confidence, book smart, and experience the best of Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and the coast without rushing.

Who This 7-Day Australia Itinerary Is For

• First-time visitors who want a classic Australia introduction that goes beyond city sightseeing
• Couples and friends keen on food, culture, and nature, with moderate walking and beach time
• Families with school-age children who enjoy zoos, ferries, and easy coastal hikes
• Solo travelers who want a safe, social destination with great public transport

If you prefer long outback drives or multiple domestic flights, this is not that trip. If you are after a big-city base with varied day trips, it will suit you perfectly.

7 Days in Australia Itinerary at a Glance

• Day 1: Sydney icons, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Opera House, harbor sunset
• Day 2: Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, beach time, ocean pools
• Day 3: Sydney neighborhoods, gardens, art, Barangaroo dining
• Day 4: Blue Mountains day trip, Katoomba, Scenic World, Three Sisters
• Day 5: Royal National Park and the Grand Pacific Drive, Kiama Blowhole
• Day 6: Jervis Bay or Port Stephens, dolphin cruise, white-sand beaches or dunes
• Day 7: Manly ferry, Taronga Zoo or North Head, last-minute shopping and departure

Below, you will find the full daily plan with options based on interest and weather.

Detailed 7-Day Sydney, Blue Mountains and Coast Itinerary

Day 1: Sydney’s Icons and the Sparkle of the Harbour

Start where Sydney shines brightest. After checking in, make your way to Circular Quay where ferries glide between green headlands and the white sails of the Opera House dominate the skyline.

• Stroll the Opera House forecourt, then join a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and architecture. If you are a culture lover, check performance listings and consider booking a show for tonight or Day 3.
• Walk around to the Royal Botanic Garden for harbor views, native flora, and a photo stop at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. The garden is free and a perfect jet lag buffer.
• Explore The Rocks, the historic neighborhood behind the Harbour Bridge. You will find cobblestone lanes, weekend markets, and heritage pubs. Consider the short climb to the Pylon Lookout on the bridge for panoramic photos.
• Sunset on the water is a must. Book a 60 to 90 minute harbor cruise or take the public ferry to Manly and back for a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers postcard-worthy views of the Opera House and bridge at dusk.

Dinner ideas

• Quay or Bennelong for a splurge with a view
• Sake at The Rocks for modern Japanese
• Barangaroo House or Cirrus for sleek waterfront dining

Sales tip: Lock in a harbor cruise and Opera House tour early, especially in summer and during Vivid Sydney in late May to mid June.

Day 2: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk and Beach Day

Sydney’s coast is a star of this week. The famous Bondi to Coogee Walk is a 6 kilometer clifftop path that stitches together beaches, rock pools, and ocean views. Start early to avoid midday sun.

• Begin at Bondi Icebergs, where the ocean pool meets crashing waves. Grab coffee overlooking the pool.
• Follow the signed path to Tamarama and Bronte. There are shaded BBQ areas in Bronte Park, a good picnic spot.
• Continue to Clovelly, a narrow bay loved by snorkelers. Rent a mask and fins on site when conditions are calm.
• Finish at Coogee for lunch. Options range from fish and chips to casual coastal bistros.

Afternoon options

• Linger at Coogee Beach, then bus back to your hotel.
• Return to Bondi for a surf lesson suitable for beginners.
• If you want a quieter scene, hop to Gordons Bay for snorkeling or Wylie’s Baths, a beautiful heritage ocean pool.

Evening

• Head to Surry Hills or Paddington for dinner and small-bar hopping. Try contemporary Australian cuisine with seasonal produce and local seafood.

Safety tip: Only swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards patrol. Rip currents are common and can move quickly.

Day 3: Neighborhoods, Culture and Barangaroo Evenings

Today you will blend big-ticket attractions with local flavor.

Morning

• Sydney Tower Eye for 360-degree city views if you skipped the Pylon Lookout on Day 1.
• Art Gallery of New South Wales or the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay for a dose of culture. Both have strong Indigenous art collections.
• Wander Hyde Park and the heritage-listed Queen Victoria Building for ornate architecture and boutique shopping.

Lunch and afternoon

• Surry Hills or Darlinghurst for cafes and creative dining. Australian coffee culture is strong. Order a flat white and a hearty brunch plate.
• If traveling with kids, spend a few hours at Darling Harbour, home to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, and the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
• Walk the Barangaroo foreshore path during the golden hour. It is a scenic route with public art and grassy terraces.

Evening

• Book a waterfront table at Barangaroo. You will find Mediterranean seafood, modern Asian eateries, and wine bars with NSW vintages.
• Nightcap at a speakeasy-style small bar or a rooftop with skyline views.

Active add-on: For a big splurge, BridgeClimb is unforgettable. Slots at sunset and twilight sell fast.

Day 4: Blue Mountains Day Trip, Misty Forests and Clifftop Views

A World Heritage landscape just two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains deliver sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, and eucalyptus-scented air. You can go independently by train and bus or join a guided tour for seamless logistics.

Highlights

• Echo Point Lookout in Katoomba for the classic view of the Three Sisters rock formation. Arrive early to beat crowds.
• Scenic World for the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway that link rainforest and cliff-top vistas. Buy a Discovery Pass online to save time in line.
• Wentworth Falls or Prince Henry Cliff Walk for an easy to moderate hike with waterfalls, fern gullies, and sweeping outlooks.
• Leura Village for lunch, boutiques, and a sugar hit at a local patisserie.

Transport

• Train from Sydney Central to Katoomba takes about two hours. Buses run from Katoomba Station to Echo Point and Scenic World.
• Many tours include wildlife stops to see kangaroos in the wild and guided short hikes.

Practical tips

• Pack layers. Mountain weather shifts quickly.
• Bring 2 liters of water per person and wear proper walking shoes.
• If you have an extra day in your schedule, consider an overnight in Katoomba or Blackheath for sunrise at Govetts Leap.

Day 5: Royal National Park and the Grand Pacific Drive

It is time to head south along one of Australia’s prettiest coastal routes. If you are comfortable driving, rent a car for the day. If not, you can still visit highlights by train and rideshare.

Route highlights

• Royal National Park, the world’s second-oldest national park, offers coastal trails, rainforest, and picnic spots. Wattamolla is a favorite for lagoon swimming when conditions are safe.
• The Figure Eight Pools are photogenic but can be dangerous at high tide or in swell. Only attempt with a guided tour and check conditions.
• Sea Cliff Bridge near Clifton is an iconic curving bridge over turquoise water. Stop for photos and a short walk.
• Continue to Kiama for the famous Blowhole, then grab gelato and stroll the harbor.

Non-driving option

• Train from Central Station to Cronulla, then a short ferry ride to Bundeena for Royal National Park walks.
• Alternatively, join a small-group tour that includes the Sea Cliff Bridge and Kiama.

Lunch ideas

• Pack a picnic with market goodies from the day before.
• Try fresh fish and chips in coastal towns along the route.

Evening

• Return to Sydney, get dinner near your hotel, and rest up for tomorrow’s coastal escape.

Day 6: Jervis Bay or Port Stephens for Dolphins and White Sand

Today is dedicated to the coast beyond Sydney. Choose one of two superb options based on your style and time.

Option A: Jervis Bay, south coast

• Known for Hyams Beach with some of the whitest sand in the world.
• Take a dolphin-watching cruise from Huskisson. Whale watching runs roughly May to November as humpbacks migrate.
• Snorkel or swim in the clear waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park.
• Great for a relaxed day with beach time and gentle activities.

Option B: Port Stephens, north coast

• Nelson Bay is the base for dolphin cruises and whale watching in season.
• Adventure lovers can try sandboarding on the giant Stockton Bight dunes at Anna Bay.
• Hike up to Tomaree Head Summit for sweeping views of islands and turquoise water.

Travel logistics

• Both are about 2.5 to 3 hours by car each way, so start early. If that feels too far for a day trip, consider closer options like Palm Beach and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in the north, or a wine day trip to the Hunter Valley.

Dining

• Huskisson and Nelson Bay both have casual waterfront cafes and seafood grills. Taste local oysters if they are in season.

Sales tip: Book your dolphin or whale cruise in advance and check-in 30 minutes early. If seas are rough, consider a bay-focused cruise rather than open ocean.

Day 7: Manly Ferry, Taronga Zoo or North Head, and Farewell Sydney

Wrap your week with one last immersion in harbor life.

Morning

• Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. Sit on the outdoor deck for a fresh breeze and classic skyline views.
• Stroll The Corso to Manly Beach. Coffee and a pastry on the sand are an easy win.
• If you want a short scenic walk, take the path to Shelly Beach with snorkel-friendly water and calmer conditions.

Alternative morning

• Taronga Zoo offers a superb setting and strong conservation programs. The Sky Safari gondola has been replaced by buses and walking paths, and the zoo still enjoys harbor views and signature exhibits. Families love this option.

Afternoon

• For a final viewpoint, head to North Head Sanctuary above Manly for clifftop scenes and WWII relics.
• Ferry back to the city for last-minute shopping in the QVB or The Rocks Markets if they are on.
• Early dinner on the harbor, then transfer to the airport.

Departure tip

• Domestic flights ask you to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure, international at least 3 hours. Allow time for traffic and security.

Where to Stay in Sydney

Choosing the right base makes your week easier and more enjoyable. Sydney is compact around the harbor, and many of the best areas connect by ferry, train, and light rail.

Top areas

• Circular Quay and The Rocks: Walk to the Opera House, ferries, and historic lanes. Ideal for first-time visitors and short stays.
• Darling Harbour and Barangaroo: Modern waterfront dining, family attractions, and city views.
• CBD: Central for shopping and transport. Skyscraper hotels, business feel.
• Surry Hills and Paddington: Creative neighborhoods with cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.
• Bondi: Beach buzz, coastal walks, and breakfast culture.
• Manly: Laid-back seaside base, reached by ferry, perfect if you love mornings by the ocean.

Accommodation styles

• Luxury: Park Hyatt Sydney, Four Seasons, The Langham, Crown Towers at Barangaroo
• Stylish boutique: QT Sydney, Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Paramount House Hotel
• Mid-range: Novotel Darling Harbour, Vibe Hotel Sydney, The Grace Hotel
• Budget and hostels: Sydney Harbour YHA in The Rocks, Wake Up! Sydney near Central Station

Booking tips

• For Vivid Sydney, New Year’s Eve, and school holidays, book months in advance.
• If harbor views are a priority, filter for Opera House or bridge views and cross-check photos.
• Choose flexible rates if your plans might change, then shift to a nonrefundable deal closer in for savings.

Getting Around: Opal Card, Ferries, Trains and Driving Days

Sydney’s public transport is excellent for city sightseeing.

• Opal card: Load funds and tap on and off for ferries, trains, light rail, and buses. Daily and weekly caps make it budget friendly.
• Ferries: The Manly and Watsons Bay routes double as scenic cruises. Time them for sunrise or sunset if you can.
• Trains and light rail: Quick for CBD to suburbs, Central Station to the airport line is often the fastest option.
• Rideshare and taxis: Plentiful, but traffic can be heavy during peak hour.
• Driving: Rent a car only for day trips like the Royal National Park, Jervis Bay, Port Stephens, or the Blue Mountains if you prefer flexibility. City parking is expensive and often unnecessary.

Approximate travel times

• Airport to Circular Quay by train: about 20 to 25 minutes
• Circular Quay to Manly by ferry: 20 to 30 minutes
• Sydney to Katoomba by train: about 2 hours
• Sydney to Jervis Bay or Port Stephens by car: 2.5 to 3 hours

Best Time to Visit Sydney, Blue Mountains and the Coast

Sydney is a year-round destination, but your choice of month shapes your experience.

• Summer, December to February: Warm to hot, beach weather, longest daylight. Busy and pricier, with strong UV.
• Autumn, March to May: Mild temperatures, lower humidity, ideal for hiking and coastal walks.
• Winter, June to August: Cooler, fewer crowds, great for whale watching and crisp Blue Mountains days.
• Spring, September to November: Pleasant weather, wildflowers, and excellent visibility.

Notable events

• Vivid Sydney: late May to mid June, city-wide light installations and events.
• New Year’s Eve: spectacular harbor fireworks, book accommodations and viewing spots early.
• Whale migration: roughly May to November along the NSW coast.

Weather notes

• The Blue Mountains can be 5 to 10 degrees cooler than Sydney. Pack layers.
• Summer storms can roll in quickly. Always check a local forecast before hikes or cruises.

What to Pack for 7 Days in Australia

• Lightweight clothing you can layer, plus a sweater or light jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
• Swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and a rash guard for sun protection in the water
• Hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF
• Reusable water bottle, 1 to 2 liters capacity
• Small daypack with rain cover for hikes
• Travel adapter, Australia uses Type I plugs
• Insect repellent, especially for coastal bushwalks at dusk
• Compact umbrella or light rain jacket, weather can shift quickly
• Camera or smartphone with extra storage for all those harbor shots

Food and Drink Highlights in Sydney

Sydney is a culinary playground that blends local produce with global flavors.

• Breakfast culture: Smashed avo, corn fritters, ricotta hotcakes, and exceptional coffee from independent roasters.
• Seafood: Sydney rock oysters, prawns, and local fish cooked simply with lemon and herbs.
• Asian influences: From Thai and Vietnamese to Japanese and Korean, you will find authentic and contemporary takes across the city.
• Markets: Carriageworks Farmers Market on Saturday for artisan producers. The Rocks Markets on weekends for snacks and souvenirs.
• BYO dining: Some restaurants let you bring your own wine for a corkage fee. Look for BYO signs.

Drinks

• Australian wines: Hunter Valley semillon and shiraz, plus cool-climate pinot noir and chardonnay from southern regions.
• Craft beer: Breweries dotted across inner suburbs like Marrickville.
• Cocktails: Rooftop bars around the CBD and Darling Harbour, and hidden small bars in laneways.

Budget and Costs: What to Expect

Costs vary by season and taste, but here are ballpark daily numbers per person in AUD.

• Budget: 120 to 180 for hostel or budget hotel, public transport, casual meals, and one paid activity every couple of days
• Mid-range: 220 to 350 for a comfortable hotel, dining out, attraction entries, and a harbor cruise or blue mountains pass
• High-end: 400 plus for upscale stays, fine dining, premium tours, and experiences like BridgeClimb

Money-saving tips

• Use the Opal card daily cap on weekdays and the reduced cap on Sundays.
• Enjoy free attractions: Botanic Garden, The Rocks heritage walks, beaches, coastal tracks, and most viewpoints.
• Book combination tickets for Darling Harbour attractions if visiting two or more.
• Picnic at beaches or parks with fresh market finds, then splurge on one big dinner.
• Travel shoulder season for better rates and pleasant weather.

Tours and Tickets Worth Booking in Advance

• Sydney Opera House guided tour or performance, popular year-round
• Harbor cruise at sunset or dinner cruise, seats with the best views sell first
• BridgeClimb, prime times are limited
• Blue Mountains guided tour with Scenic World pass and wildlife stop
• Dolphin or whale watching cruises at Jervis Bay or Port Stephens in season
• Surf lessons at Bondi, small-group classes fill quickly

Booking strategy

• Prioritize experiences that are date and weather sensitive.
• Choose flexible terms when possible, then finalize closer to the date when the forecast is clearer.

Responsible Travel and Safety

Australia is safe and welcoming, and a few simple habits will keep your trip smooth.

• Swim between flags, heed lifeguard instructions, and avoid rock fishing unless experienced and equipped.
• Sun safety is serious. Apply SPF 50, wear a hat and shirt, and reapply every two hours.
• Wildlife: Do not feed animals, keep distance from snakes and spiders, and check shoes if camping or hiking in remote areas.
• Bushfire awareness: In dry months, heed park closures and fire danger ratings.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all rubbish, stay on marked trails to protect cliff edges and sensitive flora.
• Cultural respect: Learn about and honor the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, Traditional Custodians of the land that includes central Sydney. Seek Indigenous-led tours where available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 7 days enough for Sydney and surrounds

• Yes. One week is ideal for the city highlights, a Blue Mountains day trip, and a coastal escape without packing or repacking multiple times.

Do I need a car

• Not for Sydney and the Blue Mountains by train. A car helps for Jervis Bay or Port Stephens day trips, but you can also join guided tours.

Can I swim year-round

• The ocean is swimmable for many locals year-round, but warmest from November to April. Winter swimmers use wetsuits. Always swim at patrolled beaches and check conditions.

Is tap water safe

• Yes, Sydney tap water is safe and tastes good. Carry a reusable bottle.

How do I get a local SIM

• Prepaid SIMs from Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone are sold at the airport and city convenience stores. Telstra has the broadest regional coverage.

Do Australians tip

• Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or adding 5 to 10 percent for great service is appreciated. Many restaurants now have optional tip prompts.

Customizable Alternatives

You might want to tweak Day 5 or 6 based on interests.

• Wine lovers: Replace Day 6 with a Hunter Valley wine tour. Expect 3 to 4 cellar doors, artisan cheese, and a scenic country lunch.
• Northern beaches: Spend a day at Palm Beach, climb to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and explore Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
• Culture focus: Add time at the Australian Museum, the Powerhouse Museum, or the Barangaroo cultural precinct.
• Canberra day trip: For museums and the Australian War Memorial, a long but rewarding day is possible by coach or car.
• Extra hikes: In the Blue Mountains, consider the Grand Canyon Walk near Blackheath or the National Pass track when open and safe.

Final Tips for a Flawless Week

• Start early on hiking and beach days to stay ahead of heat and crowds.
• Check live transport updates on the Transport for NSW app.
• Reserve restaurants with a view several days in advance, especially for sunset.
• Build in buffer time. Do not schedule a long day trip right before a late-night flight.
• Embrace ferries. They are the most scenic way to get around and create built-in magic moments.

Conclusion: Your Week of Icons, Nature and Coastline

Seven days in Australia can deliver a surprisingly rich experience when you anchor your trip in Sydney. You will stand beneath the Opera House sails, taste the city’s creative cuisine, and ride ferries that turn everyday commutes into moving viewpoints. You will breathe the crisp air of the Blue Mountains and feel tiny beside sandstone cliffs. You will skim along a coastline that dazzles with sea-carved bridges, sleepy bays, and beaches that squeak underfoot.

Follow this plan as a blueprint, then adapt it to your pace and passions. Book a harbor cruise, lace up for the Bondi to Coogee walk, pencil in a Blue Mountains day trip, and choose your perfect coastal escape. With smart logistics and a sense of adventure, your 7 days in Australia will feel like the best kind of whirlwind, full of color, light, and the sound of waves and laughter echoing long after you land back home.