When you think of Sydney, you’d most likely think of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Although iconic in their own way, there is more to Sydney than that and you can definitely find lots of different Instagrammable things around. Here are my top 10 spots for fun photos in Sydney!
Although I’m posting this now, these were actually taken during my trip in Nov 2019.
1. Luna Park
This iconic amusement park is full of Instagrammable spots. The park was closed due to renovations during my time of visit so I was only able to roam about the front portion of the park to take some pictures. While there were no rides in operation and I couldn’t explore more of the park, it was great that there was pretty much nobody around so photos turned out great.
Address:
1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia
Getting there:
Taking the ferry to Milsons Point Wharf drops you right at Luna Park, plus you’ll get a good view of the cityscape including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. You can take the opportunity to snap some pics with these icons while on the ferry ride.
2. Harrington Street
I read about this pink building while researching Instagrammable spots in Sydney so I’m also adding it to my list. You may not want to go out of your way to find it unless you love pink things or you’re going somewhere around the area.
Address:
75 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Getting there:
There doesn’t seem to be a building number on Google Maps but it’s right next to Rendezvous Hotel. There’s a lot of food and shopping in the area so you could plan it into your itinerary.Â
3. Angel Place Birdcages
Tucked away in a quiet corner are over a hundred empty birdcages suspended midair with the songs of 50 birds that once inhabited Sydney playing quietly. Honestly, I do not recall hearing it but it was pretty cool to see the back-alleys of the city decorated like that.
Address:
Angel Pl, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Getting there:
It’s a short walk from the bus stop or light rail. There are some pretty good coffee shops in the vicinity so you can grab a cup on your way to admire this art piece.
4. In Between Two Worlds
This art piece runs through Kimber Lane and features Chinese-styled clouds on the walls and floor, and spirit figures suspended above. At night, the spirit figures light up and the lanes have a dim blue glow.
“The half human, half spirit figures in Kimber Lane represent our past, present and future ancestors. The themes of heaven and earth, the elements, and respect for ancestors past and present, are universal. The figures are inspired by Aboriginal and Chinese heritage but do not discriminate other cultures. The cloud mural pattern has been painted on the laneway ground and wall surfaces and etched into the granite paving. When repeated, the cloud pattern symbolises never-ending fortune.“- City of Sydney
Address:Â
Kimber Ln, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
Getting there:
Located near Chinatown, this alley is located in walking distance from the light rail. It’s a relatively empty street that doesn’t get in the way of traffic so you’ll be able to enjoy the art piece and snap a few pictures.
5. Sydney Town Hall
These purple trees were a pleasant surprise when I visited Sydney. I had not expected that they would be in bloom so beautifully. I later learnt that they are Jacaranda trees and they bloom in Oct-Nov. The spot where I took this photo is right at Sydney Town Hall. There are lots of trees along the road to view or sit under and lots of people walking around as well since this is the central district of Sydney.
Address:
483 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Getting there:
You’ll most likely end up passing by this area as you explore the central area of Sydney. The Town Hall station is also a few steps away.
6. The Grounds of Alexandria
No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to The Grounds of Alexandria café. Located in a former pie factory, The Grounds is now a spacious café with indoor and outdoor seating. Within the space, there are three different dining areas with different menus and aesthetics – The Grounds Café, The Potting Shed and The Garden Bar & BBQ. It is worth walking around to explore the entire ground because everything is so pretty and cute, especially while waiting for a table. Do note that it is almost always crowded because the decoration changes with the seasons and there are several events held regularly.
Address:
7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
Getting there:
Depending on where you stay or start your journey, it might be a little inconvenient to get to the café. The nearest train station is bit of a walk away and there is only 1 bus that services the nearest bus stop.Â
7. Social Hideout
Another cute café to visit for Instagrammable pictures is Social Hideout. With floral decorations all over and pretty food, this is definitely a cute brunch spot to hit with your girlfriends. The pretty ambiance warrants a visit or two, but don’t expect much from the food.
Address:
Shop 4/5/25-33 Allen St, Waterloo NSW 2017, Australia
Getting there:
It’s about a 20-30min bus ride from the city center, and a couple minutes of walking to arrive at the café. Look for a wall full of flowers and you’ve found it.
8. Rainbow Crossing
I love rainbows and this crossing definitely stole my heart when I stumbled across it during my research. It’s a small 2-lane road with a short rainbow crossing section celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and inclusiveness. As it is still a functional road, do expect some (3-4) cars and pedestrians at the traffic light and respect the light changes. You may get an empty road if you wait around a little longer.
Address:
Bourke St and, Campbell St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Getting there:
Depending on where you start your journey, you might be able to take the bus and alight nearer to the crossing. You’ll still have to walk a bit to get to it.Â
9. Bronte Baths
When you search for Bondi Beach, you might come across some images showing amazing views of sand, water and a swimming pool in the ocean. If it’s the swimming pool view you are looking for, then direct your search towards Bronte Baths. Both beaches are in close proximity to each other and there is even a coastal walking trail so you can explore and enjoy the beautiful views of both beaches.
Address:
Bronte Rd, Bronte NSW 2024, Australia
Getting there:
Buses should get you quite close to where you want to start your walk towards the beach, whether it’s Bondi Beach or Bronte Beach.
10. Hornby Lighthouse
I was attracted to make a stop at this lighthouse for its fun vintage red and white striped appearance. It might be quite out of the way but it’s a nice quiet area to enjoy the sea view, sun and breeze along with taking some fun pictures to commemorate your hike to the lighthouse.
Address:
S Head Heritage Trail, Watsons Bay NSW 2030, Australia
Getting there:
We took the bus from Bondi Beach to the nearest bus stop here (Robertson Park, Military Road). After that, it’s a 1.5km (20min) scenic walk all the way to the lighthouse.
11. Hunter Valley
*Bonus spot*
This is pretty far out of the city but if you are planning on taking a wine tour, you’ll probably come across some views like this. Our tour took us to a few locations in Hunter Valley but this had the best view. Someone even landed a helicopter nearby!
Address:
Hunter Valley (pick your poison; there are over 150 wineries to visit!)
Getting there:
Either by driving on your own or booking a day tour.