Top five bucket list adventures for a study trip to Sydney

As long-haul travel returns, it’s not only our students who are out exploring the world, but also our team here at Diversity Study Trips. Dom from the team recently headed out to Australia to visit family for Christmas and New Year, he gives some tips below & explains why a summertime visit to Sydney should be next on your study trip bucket list!

I ventured out to Sydney towards the end of December last year, spending two weeks exploring the city. Australia’s seasons are at opposite times to those in the northern hemisphere, The Australian summer starts in early December until the end of February.

It was very surreal sitting on the beach on Christmas Day in 26°C  sunshine, but you soon adjust to the December sun. I had a jam-packed two weeks of adventures and sight-seeing, check out my top five must-see spots for your study trip to Sydney:

Surfing lesson on Bondi Beach: 

This was top of the bucket list, Bondi Beach is one of the world’s greatest beaches, and is one of Sydney’s main tourist attractions. The surfing lesson was great fun, you collect your wetsuit and board, the instructors then lead a ‘land lesson’. The idea is to give you some tips and tricks before entering the water, the instructors also lead a safety briefing. We then spent an hour in the water, the instructors are also in the water with you, helping you master the surf with every wave. I just about managed to stand up, but more practice is needed! It was a great activity at one of the most iconic beaches in the world.

Bondi to Coogee Costal Walk:

I love keeping active even when travelling, the coastal walk to Coogee is a great way to get some miles in & the views were amazing. One way is a 6km walk, we passed Bronte Beach & loads of small Bays with tropical blue water. The mix of clifftops, fresh air and uninterrupted views of the ocean make for a perfect afternoon stroll. We passed the Bondi Icebergs swimming club, which is a picturesque outdoor swimming pool overlooking the ocean, that was established in 1929. It’s one of Sydney’s most Instagrammed locations. The walk was one of my favourite things to do in Sydney & it’s completely free!

Luna Park Sydney:

We spent an evening at Luna Park, which is an iconic amusement park in heart of Sydney. The park opened in 1935, it still maintains the old school throwback theme park feel that makes you feel like you’re in an old movie, but the rides have a modern spin. The Sledgehammer was my favourite ride, spinning you 360 in the air, it’s not as scary as it sounds! A visit to Luna Park is a must if you’re visiting Sydney.

Sydney Opera House:

One of the most iconic buildings in the world, sitting just off Sydney Harbour the Opera House oversees the ships and cruise boats entering the city. You have to visit the Opera House, even if it’s just for a quick walk around. You can book tours to walk inside the building, giving you a chance to explore the three main shell shaped theatres. If you have time I’d recommend going to see a performance, including Opera, Classical Music and even the Circus, tickets are reasonable and often available last minute!

Sydney Harbour Bridge:

Sydney’s famous bridge was constructed in the 1930s, connecting central Sydney and the North Shore. Until this point the only way between the two was via boat or driving around the city. I visited the pylon lookout and the museum, which gives you the history into the politics and construction behind the famous bridge. The views from the pylon lookout were incredible. The bridge climb is also available to book, which allows you to walk over the arch of the bridge looking down 134 meters onto the harbour. I wasn’t feeling brave on this day, but definitely a cool experience for any thrill seekers!

That’s my top five, and some amazing spots didn’t make the cut! Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site & open to visitors to explore the old island prison, you can even camp on the island overnight.

Manly Beach, Sydney Olympic Park, Museum of Contemporary Art, Royal Botanic Gardens, Paddington Markets, China Town and Darling Harbour all deserve a visit. The list goes on, there’s so much to see in the city full of history, art and culture. All of this on the backdrop of blue sandy beaches!

I’d recommend booking your trip to Sydney as early as possible, flight prices rapidly increase three to four months prior to the Australian summer (December). There’s heaps of alternative accommodation options in the city, from plush hotels to hostels such as YHA.

If you’re interested in a study trip to Sydney check out here for some more inspiration and then get in touch with our team who can begin creating your tailor-made experience today.

Why not check out some of our other great summer study trips!

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