When in Australia, the thing people will always highly recommend is coffee. A cuppa is affordable and yet super delicious. However, oftentimes, people will overlook the fact that with your usual of cup joe, you’ll need something to snack on alongside it – probably something sweet.

We’ve narrowed down some places in Sydney you have to try if you’re looking to find a sweet snack to eat with your coffee or even if you’re simply craving something sugary and satisfying!

AQUA S

You may know this brand from when they appeared in Singapore, but they actually originated from Sydney. They pride themselves in their ever-changing flavours and their one signature – their Sea Salt soft-serve. It’s the most refreshing treat when the weather is simply sweltering. It helps that they’re simply a stone’s throw away from the train station!

If you’re into the whole #Instagrammable hype, try adding their ring of cotton candy and watch as your soft-serve gets engulfed by a cloud-like ring of cotton candy!

27/501 George Street
Regent Place Shopping Centre
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Nearest Station: Town Hall

BLACK STAR PASTRY

This particular world-famous bakery was the OG-creator of the extremely Instagrammable Strawberry Watermelon Cake. It was the cake that had catapulted them to fame and is now recognized everywhere, with many bakeries in Singapore recreating their own rendition of their signature creation.

Located in Sydney’s CBD, it’s an extremely accessible bakery that you can sit down and chill at while enjoying their beautiful and super scrumptious sweets. Other than their Strawberry Watermelon cake, look out for their Pistachio Lemon Zen Cake and their Chocolate Hazelnut Torte too!

500 George Street
The Galeries, Level 2
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Mon to Wed, Fri & Sat: 10am – 6.30pm
Thu: 10am – 8pm
Sun: 10am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Town Hall

BOURKE STREET BAKERY

This cosy bakery serves up some of the most phenomenal bakes. It may be a bit of a walk from the nearest train station but it’s definitely worth it. They are super famous for their Ginger Brulee Tarts but you should also check out their Passionfruit Meringue Tart and their freshly-baked croissants. Their Pain Au Chocolat is to-die for!

We would say it’s a must-visit for any first-timers in Sydney. They have quite a few branches but we found the one Surry Hills to be the most peaceful to enjoy their bakes in!

633 Bourke St
Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Mon to Fri: 7am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 7am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Central

Photo Credit: Instagram

BREWTOWN NEWTOWN

Brewtown Newtown is conveniently located in (yes, we know) Newtown, Sydney. It’s in a prime location for University students and tourists alike, so prepare for some bustling crowds. Nonetheless, it’s a great place for some good cuppas, brunch and a great sweet pastry.

From Belgian Waffles to their multi-flavoured Cronuts, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We particularly enjoyed their Caramel Cronut – just imagine the buttery flavour and flaky texture of a croissant but in donut form!

6-8 O’Connell Street
Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Daily: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Macdonaldtown/Newtown

CRE ASION CAFE

If you’re a big matcha or green tea fan, this quaint and somewhat-hidden Japanese-run cafe will definitely interest you. On their menu are all Matcha-themed desserts and drinks – we would recommend you to try their Matcha Latte and Matcha Fondant.

As it’s in central Sydney, it’s also not too out of the way in case you were in the area sightseeing! The staff there are so polite and friendly too. Just note that they are quite small yet popular so you might not be able to get a seat so easily.

101/21 Alberta Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm
Sat: 9am – 4pm
Sun: 10am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Museum

GELATO MESSINA

This is probably one of the most popular gelato shops in Sydney. Besides offering a variety of their signature flavours, the folks at Messina also constantly come up with new treats. Just think Apple Pie, Thai Milk Tea with Pandan Fudge and Yoghurt & Caramel! Even if it sounds funky, give it a try because they’re probably still amazing.

389 Crown Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Central

KOI DESSERT BAR

Probably one of the more upscale dessert places in Sydney, Koi Dessert Bar prides themselves in their beautiful polished dessert creations. These multi-coloured beauties sit in a glass case and come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and flavours. The range changes from time to time, involving seasonal ingredients and festive flavours, so whenever you visit, prepare to try something new!

46 Kensington Street
Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
Tue to Sun: 10am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Central

MAPO GELATO

Winter, Summer, rain or shine, there is never a bad time for some good ol’ icy gelato. There’s just something about ice cream that’s always good, no matter what the weather or time is. Especially if you’re near Mapo Gelato.

We would like to think that Mapo is one of the best gelato shops in Sydney. Their gelato contains all-natural flavours coming from fruits, nuts and tea. It’s super smooth, creamy and packed full of flavour – really a must-try when you’re in Sydney!

123 King Street
Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Macdonaldtown

SHORT STOP COFFEE & DONUTS

After exploring Darling Harbour or Sydney’s Chinatown, you might walk around Darling Square. If you do, we’d recommend popping by Short Stop Coffee & Donuts. This humble store serves up some really delicious donuts that you will find yourself wolfing down. From Triple Matcha to Maple Bacon, their flavour range is super drool-worthy! Do stop by earlier to avoid any favourite flavours being sold out, though!

23 Barangaroo Avenue
Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Wynyard

Photo Credit: Instagram

SOHO ESPRESSO

If you fancy a coffee, a pastry or some healthy light bites, Soho Espresso might be a great place to hit up when in Sydney. Other than the usual croissants and cakes, they also stock some delicious “raw slices” which are made with vegan-friendly ingredients, often tasty and super healthy. If there’s a place that can combine “no-guilt” and “dessert”, we’ll be all about it for sure.

175 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Mon to Fri: 6.30am – 4pm
(Closed on weekends)
Nearest Station: St. James/Martin Place

TINI ARTISAN BAKEHOUSE

If buttery croissants are your cup of tea, you can give TiNi Artisan Bakehouse a try! This bakery specializes in the classic French pastry and does it impeccably well – buttery, flaky and super crispy (all hallmarks of a great croissant).

Their most popular croissant is definitely their Pain Au Chocolat and its unique shape is quite eye-catching. It’s also generously filled with dark chocolate so almost every bite will have that hint of cocoa!

22 Kensington Street
Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
Tue to Sun: 8am – 4pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Central

Sydney is arguably the most visited part of Australia (sorry Melbourne). With must-sees such as the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, it’s a hotspot for tourists and other locals from within Australia too!

Other than sightseeing spots, Sydney offers foodies a plethora of cuisines and cafes to choose from – from tantalizing brunch to sweet desserts, Sydney has them all. Even if you only have a few days to spend, you’ll be satisfied for sure; you’ll probably want to book a return trip after this though!

Here’s a 3D2N itinerary for Sydney for travellers who are visiting Sydney for the first time. Trust us when we say it won’t be your last.

SYDNEY ITINERARY DAY 1

BRUNCH: THREE WILLIAMS CAFE

For your very first day at Sydney, check out this hidden gem in Redfern called Three Williams. Our favourite dish from them is their hearty Crabmeat Linguine. It’s chocked full of sweet crabmeat and cooked in a thick creamy sauce. We loved how there was a crunch from the toasted breadcrumb and nut topping too!

Do try their hot chocolate as well – they do a great rendition of this classic drink. It’s rich yet not too cloying – perfect for a breezy morning in Sydney.

613A Elizabeth Street
Redfern NSW 2016, Australia
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Redfern

VISIT MAPO GELATO

Mapo Gelato in Newtown is probably one of the best gelato stores in Sydney. They offer a great range of all-natural flavours, packing a punch yet still maintaining that ultra-smooth gelato texture. Our favourite flavours have to be their Matcha and fresh Mango gelato! If you prefer something more subtle, try their Fior De Latte, which is an all-milk gelato.

123 King Street
Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Macdonaldtown

SEE THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

“P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way Sydney”. If this phrase rings a bell, congratulations, your childhood was awesome! Something you absolutely have to see in Sydney on your very first trip there is the Sydney Opera House. This architectural wonder is the icon of Australia for a reason – it’s truly magnificent up close. You’ll walk away from this wondering if your photographs have done this beauty any justice!

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SNAP A PHOTO OF THE HARBOUR BRIDGE

Nearby the Sydney Opera House is another iconic Sydney landmark – the Harbour Bridge. You can actually climb the bridge, but that takes a few hours. If you have less time on your hands, you can admire it from the bay at the Sydney Opera House and still get really good photos too!

SWING BY THE ROCKS WEEKEND MARKET

For first-timers in Sydney, you might be a little surprised by the short operating hours of most shops in the area. They can close as early as 3 or 4pm sometimes! However, that’s not to say Sydney doesn’t have a bustling nightlife as well.

The Rocks Market is open only on weekends. We’d recommend going on Saturday or Sunday as it closes at 5pm, ensuring you time to walk around and enjoy some food and shopping!

Jack Mundey Place, Playfair Street
George Street, The Rocks
NSW 2000, Australia
Fri: 9am – 3pm
Saturday: 9am – 5pm

STROLL THROUGH THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS

If you’re feeling a little tired, make your way to the Royal Botanic Gardens, a 10-minute walk from the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay station. It’s a lush garden fit for royals, like its namesake. Grab a cup of coffee and you’re good to sit on the beautiful lawns, admiring the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from a brand-new vantage point.

Head over to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, one of the best viewing spots of the opera house and the harbour bridge. The best time of the day to visit is just before the sun sets so you can witness the sky changing colours while you admire Sydney’s best landmarks.

DINNER: HURRICANE’S GRILL

For dinner, head on over to Hurricane’s Grill at Circular Quay. Hurricane’s Grill Steakhouse is where locals and tourists go for the famous Hurricane’s ribs. If ribs are not your thing, you can try their premium Australian steaks and burgers!

Level 2, Gateway Sydney Alfred Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Circular Quay

SYDNEY ITINERARY DAY 2

BREAKFAST: BOURKE STREET BAKERY

Hidden in Surry Hills is Bourke Street Bakery, famous for their delectable pastries and tarts. Our favourites list runs long but if you want to know what’s best, get their Pain au Chocolat and their Ginger Brûlée Tart. You can grab a hot cup of coffee to go with your pastries too – a perfect breakfast in our eyes.

633 Bourke Street
Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Mon to Fri: 7am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 7am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Central

GO ON A COASTAL WALK TO BONDI BEACH

For those who like to have a little bit of a hike in the morning, challenge yourselves to a coastal walk and be rewarded with some of the most stunning views Australia has to offer. We took a short 1-hour hike from Bronte Beach to Bondi Beach, which could be done faster if we hadn’t stopped to take so many photos (but who wouldn’t when the views are so magnificent?).

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Photo Credit: Instagram

LOUNGE AT BONDI’S ICEBERGS CLUB

Another iconic spot is Bondi’s Iceberg Club. Located in the centre of Sydney’s most famous beach, it’s a great place to kick back, relax and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing right before your eyes. They offer coffee, alcohol and some great food options to help you enjoy the day to the fullest!

You should definitely have a dip in their pool and sauna, peering over the edge to where actual waves are ebbing and flowing. There’s just something about the azure waters that make it all-too inviting.

1 Notts Avenue
Bondi NSW 2026, Australia
Sun to Wed, Fri & Sat: 6am – 6pm
Thu: 8am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Bondi Junction

EXPLORE DARLING HARBOUR & SQUARE

This picturesque harbour is one of the most famous places in Sydney, constantly bustling with people from all over the world. It even has its own Ferris Wheel, which makes for a great backdrop for some Instagram photos as well. Darling Square, just beside the harbour, is great for getting some quick bites.

GRAB A BITE AT SHORT STOP DONUTS

If you’re feeling peckish after lunch, drop by Short Stop for their fluffy donuts. We love how their flavours are all-natural and super unique – think Triple Matcha, Cinammon Cardomom & Sugar and Maple, Walnut & Brown Butter. They have both cake-based and yeast-raised donuts, so everyone can have a favourite!

Shop 3, 23 Barangaroo Avenue
Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Wynard

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DINNER AT ESTER RESTAURANT

It’s your last night in Sydney so why not splurge a little on some fancier food? Rated as one of the best restaurants in central Sydney, Ester will not disappoint. We tried their Hanger Steak with Salsa Verde and Garlic Puree, along with their house Kombucha. It was a truly splendid meal and a must-try in Sydney.

46-52 Meagher Street
Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
Mon to Fri: 6pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 4.30pm
Nearest Station: Redfern

SYDNEY ITINERARY DAY 3

BREAKFAST & COFFEE AT BREWTOWN

Sydney has an abundance of great coffee shops and cafes but our favourite has to be Brewtown, an industrial-themed coffee roaster in Newtown. There’s just something magical about their cuppas that keeps us coming back for more. Pair your hot coffee with their iconic Cruffin – a cross between a flaky Croissant and a baked muffin.

They’re always crowded so go earlier to avoid having to wait for seats!

6-8 O’Connell Street
Newtown NSW 2042, Australia
Daily: 8am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Macdonaldtown

VISIT THE GROUNDS OF ALEXANDRIA

There’s one place you have to visit before you hop on your flight back.

If you haven’t visited The Grounds, have you really been to Sydney? Well, if there’s one place that’s more heavily photographed by tourists than the Sydney Opera House, it’s probably The Grounds of Alexandria – a garden-themed cluster of cafes. A common misconception that many people have is that it’s a single eatery that’s just really huge. However, it’s actually several restaurants with vastly different menus spread all over a huge plot of beautifully decorated land.

There are stalls speckled all over the Grounds serving up pastries, flowers and different types of tea and drinks too, not to mention a farm with live animals right in the centre of the place. There’s literally a photo opportunity at every corner.

7a/2 Huntley Street
Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
Mon to Thu: 7am – 9pm
Fri: 7am – 10pm
Sat: 7.30am – 10pm
Sun: 7.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Green Square