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

It is easy to get overwhelmed by all the exciting experiences and sights to see in Sydney, after all, it is the largest city in Australia.

With one of the most iconic buildings in the world, beautiful beaches and mountains, and an infinite amount of cafes to check out, Sydney offers endless possibilities for visitors to spend their day.

We have compiled 17 essential activities that every tourist has to check off their list in order to proclaim that they have been to Sydney.

#1 SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

No visitor can say that they have truly been to Sydney without an obligatory photo and visit to the Sydney Opera House!

Take a stroll towards the iconic building, have a meal right by the water and visit the souvenir shop. If you’re looking for the full experience, book a wine and dine tour at the Sydney Opera House, or better yet catch a show!

With over 40 shows per week at the Sydney Opera House, we’re sure you’ll have the most magical experience there.

#2 SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

An iconic attraction of its own situated right next to the Sydney Opera House, there are two best ways to experience the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

For a more relaxing time, take the sightseeing cruise and sip on a warm cup of tea or coffee while the cruise takes you around both the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Friendly tour guides are also available on the cruise for engaging personal stories and recommendations on sightseeing activities.

The adrenaline junkies should attempt the climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge for an extraordinary experience! Not only will you get the best view of the city, but it will also make for an epic story to share with your loved ones.

#3 THE ROCKS MARKET

Head over to the cobblestoned lanes and sandstone steps of The Rocks, where you will find a myriad of locally-made products from handcrafted jewellery to luxurious silk scarves, tasty street food, and chocolate made with Australian grown cocoa beans.

Be amazed by the artists performing glassblowing and spray-painted artworks before you at the market that takes place every weekend.

#4 DARLING HARBOUR

Bask in the warm rays of the setting sun while enjoying a romantic dinner by Darling Harbour. The colourful Star of the Show Ferris Wheel also boasts a spectacular view of the waterfront for an intimate ride with your partner.

You could also take a relaxing stroll around the bustling harbour during the day, which is equally as romantic, and look out for the numerous yachts docked along the harbour.

#5 RIDE ON THE MANLY FERRY

The Manly ferry services connect the central business district of Sydney to the suburb of Manly to bring visitors for another adventure. The exhilarating voyage to Manly offers visitors a remarkable view of the serene blue ocean that stretches as far as the eye can see.

#6 TAKE A TREK FROM MANLY TO SPIT

The entire route from Manly to Spit Bridge is an estimated 10 kilometres and will take up to 4 hours to complete the whole trek, but do not let that deter you from a visit!

The coastal walk takes you through lush greenery and is made up of several short routes that pass-through Sydney’s beautiful scenic beaches and bays.

Photo Credit: Emperor’s Puffs

#7 TAKE A WALK AROUND CHINATOWN

The Chinatown in Sydney is probably Australia’s largest, with a plethora of Asian cuisines for visitors from every corner of the world to feast on.

From quirky and uniquely named bubble teas at Song Tea to mouth-watering custard puffs made using old school machinery at Emperor’s Puffs, Sydney’s Chinatown is one you should definitely check out for how large, diverse and multicultural it is.

Photo Credit: Cre Asion

#8 BRUNCH AT CRE ASION

Matcha lovers rejoice, Cre Asion is a simple and cosy Japanese cafe hidden away in an alley that is typically spotted with a queue of eager diners awaiting their turn.

Well-balanced with earthy flavours and a bittersweet taste, diners get to choose from a plethora of matcha dishes, from freshly baked goods to aromatic lattes. If you are craving something more savoury, order their scrambled eggs, which are served perfectly cooked with a side of toast.

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

#9 ROYAL NATIONAL PARK

South from Sydney, the Royal National Park one of the best natural attractions in Australia with astonishing coastal cliffs to lavish forests scented with eucalyptus trees and isolated beaches.

Admire the view at Wedding Cake Rock, appreciate mother nature at the Figure Eight Rock Pools, and be awed by the waterfalls, this national park is a must-visit whether you are a nature lover or not.

Photo Credit: The Grounds of Alexandria

#10 THE GROUNDS OF ALEXANDRIA

The Grounds of Alexandria is a highly Instagram-worthy place filled with colourful flowers and photogenic structures such as the fountains and leafy arches. Inside, there are several photogenic spots for visitors to snap away including a charming flower shop.

Take a break at any of their beautifully-decorated eateries, including The Cafe that offers a seasonally inspired menu, as well as The Potting Shed, that not only serves tasty meals but also houses an adorable parrot!

7a/2 Huntley St,
Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
Mon to Thu: 7am – 9pm
Fri: 7am – 10pm
Sat: 7.39am – 10pm
Sun: 7.30am – 9pm
Nearest Train Station: Green Square

#11 BLUE MOUNTAINS

Rugged sceneries of the mountainside, majestic waterfalls, and a panoramic landscape of the sky meeting the tree-lined cliffs.

The Blue Mountains is a three-hour drive out west of Sydney and is a popular location amongst tourists to observe Australian scenery at any of the magnificent lookout spots including Echo Point with an awe-inspiring view of the Three Sisters rock formation.

Photo Credit: Jenolan Caves

#12 VISIT THE JENOLAN CAVES

Close to the Blue Mountains, Jenolan Caves is one of the world’s most ancient and striking cave formations made of limestone. Adventure seekers will love this vast cave for the mystical aura it has from the years of history as well as the incredibly rare and diverse natural resources located here.

#13 SYDNEY FISH MARKET

This enormous marketplace in Sydney is the seafood heaven of your dreams! Feast on as much seafood as you want here, dive into the brightly orange-coloured fresh salmon sashimi and perfectly seared scallops covered in cheese.

Satisfy all your wildest seafood cravings and stretch your dollar for the best bang for your buck, Sydney Fish Market offers some of the best quality of seafood at great prices. Feast on huge pieces of lobsters and freshly shucked Australian oysters without bursting a hole in your wallet.

Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St,
Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Light Rail Station: Fish Market/Wentworth Park

#14 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Right by the waterside, the Museum of Contemporary Art is easily accessible due to its location close to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.

Take the guided tour by the friendly staff and gain valuable insight into the artists’ vision for each piece of artwork in their exhibits. The museum also has amazing Aboriginal art exhibited for visitors to gain a brief understanding of the indigenous people’s culture.

Photo Credit: Queen Victoria Building

#15 QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING

Quaint boutique shops and beautiful nineteenth-century architecture, the Queen Victoria Building is a heritage-listed building that is located in the heart of the Sydney central business district on George Street.

The lively ambience here is reminiscent to the magic of Christmas, with locals enjoying their brunch, tourists purchasing their gifts and taking photos of the stunning design of the clocks while a random visitor plays a romantic tune of the grand piano on the top floor.

Photo Credit: KOI Dessert Bar & Dining

#16 KOI DESSERT BAR & DINING

MasterChef Australia’s Reynold Poernomo, who has gained international recognition for his spectacularly decorated desserts, along with his brothers Arnold and Ronald are the forces behind Sydney’s most popular dessert eatery, KOI Dessert Bar.

The award-winning desserts combine unique flavours to indulge their diners’ senses with their innovative sweet treats, this is the perfect place to stop for dessert after a satisfying meal.

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

#17 BONDI BEACH

Debatably the most well-recognised beach in Australia, Bondi Beach is always packed with both locals and visitors. The emerald blue waters are constantly speckled with surfers riding waves and families splashing around while joggers run along the coastline and dogs play fetch.

Bondi Beach also has an abundance of trendy, laid-back cafes, hip bars and charming shops lining the streets nearby if you wish to hide away from the scorching sun and chilly wind for a bit.

One of the highlights of my recent Sydney trip was climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. During the climb, I had the chance to see the city in a different light while thinking about life.

Here are 5 life lessons learned from climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

1. You only live once. Live for the moment.

If you don’t climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge now, when are you going to get the chance again? You only live once, don’t live to regret things.

2. The view is great on top, but you need to work hard to get there.

When you get to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the view is beyond amazing. I never knew Sydney could be so beautiful, and I think it is partly because I worked hard to climb my way to the top. The same applies for everything else in life. If you want something, you need to work hard for it.

3. Sometimes when you are scared, the only way is to move forward.

If you’ve climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a group before, you would know that it is not quite possible to stop, and even if you are scared of heights, the only way is to move forward.

Always push yourself to move forward, to break

Photos credit: Dawn Yang

4. Good things always come at a price.

Let’s just face it: nothing in this world is free. You want to see the spectacular view from the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge? Sure, pay A$218 for it. In life, good things always come at a price.

5. Life is a journey, not a destination.

This quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson says it all. Sometimes we are too focused on the destination, that we forget to enjoy the journey. Don’t be too anxious to get to the top, learn to enjoy the process. Life is a journey.

If you are planning a trip down-under, read my post about my adventure in Sydney

I heard everyone has a separate stomach for desserts. At least, it’s true for all those with a sweet tooth like me. Some people say that Sydney is known for the awesome cafés and beaches. However, do you know there is quite a handful of amazing dessert places too?

Here is a list of my top 10 favourite dessert places in Sydney. While discovering Sydney, why not make it a sweet one too?

From cakes, to tarts, and pastries, and ice cream, we have it all covered!

The Grounds of Alexandria

Good Food Guide awarded the Best New Café of the Year 2012 to The Grounds of Alexandria. I did not know this fact until I witness the insane number of people waiting to get a seat when I arrived (and of course the award that was placed on top of the dessert display glass case).

While in line, we could not help but get started on the sweet bites available at the take away counter. After being offered a bite of the Lemon Curd Tart by my friend, I could not help but went to get another one! I can safely say it’s one of the best in Sydney. The filling of the tart is pudding-like that is lemony sweet. The lemon zest on top of the tart not only made it look pretty but also adds a hint of bitterness that blends out the sweetness. The Chocolate Tart has a crust like those of an egg tart, fluffy and flaky. You will be spoilt with choices at The Grounds. No doubt, this place is worth the wait!

Building 7A, No.2 Huntley Street
Alexandria, Sydney NSW 2015
Tel: (02) 9699 2225

Black Star Pastry

Tuck away in a small lane of Newtown is this little pastry café that serves pastries that have an interesting mix of flavours. The Strawberry & Watermelon Cake (AUD$6) is a local favourite; mine too. It’s a blend of fruity freshness from the watermelon and sweetness from the strawberries. I love how the watermelon adds that extra crunch to the cake. It’s a must try in Sydney.

If you are feeling ambitious, go for the Raspberry Crème Brulee tart. What really add that magic spark to this place is their little creative creations of sweet treats. You’ll definitely find something out of the norm at Black Star Pastry!

277 Australia Street
Newtown, Sydney NSW 2042
Tel: (02) 9557 8656

The French House

This French House is one of the many nice cafés in Waterloo, Sydney. What drew me to it were the French inspired exteriors with the metal floral designed seats and rich black velvet cushion ones inside. This is just the place where you will want to laze your day away catching up with some friends over a cup of latte and sweet treats.

I simply could not resist the Citron Tart when saw it. With the first bite, the tart simply melts away in my mouth. You get the buttery crust with the sweet citron filling and a zesty touch. Another one that I love is the Strawberry Cream Tart topped with loads of fresh strawberries. The list just goes on and on. If your love for tarts never ends, The French House is the place to go.

1 Danks Street
Waterloo, Sydney NSW 2017
Tel: (02) 8399 2770

Baroque Bistro Patisserie

When I step foot in this place, I was in awe. It’s such a beautiful patisserie that sits in the middle of The Rocks with an awesome view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s a nice place to go to just unwind with some desserts and tea.

I have to say Baroque has the best macarons in Sydney. The flavours are classic and sweet but not overpowering. It’s light and fluffy that melts in your mouth with every little bite. Some of my favourites include the Passionfruit, Pistachio and Sour Cream and Rosewater Macaron ($2.70 each).

Not to mention they have really yummy cakes as well that comes with a sorbet on the side. Definitely a great place to have an afternoon out with your girlfriends.

88 George Street (corner of Hickson Road)
The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9241 4811

The Sweet Spot Patisserie

This patisserie reminds me of the colours of Tiffany & Co. with delicate interior décor. More importantly, it’s packed with a wide variety of cakes and sweets.

One of my favourite got to be the Caprioska! Not only does it look pretty, it’s filled with a bag full of flavours. It’s a short cake with vanilla cream, and lychee in the middle, topped with some raspberries. Now, the magic is in the pink dome exterior. It’s crispy and cracks open when you push your dessert folk into it. Imagine all the textures, a crispy exterior with a soft mousse-like short cake in the middle filled with sweetness. I’m in heaven right now. If you love cakes, you’ll love this!

18 Perouse Road
Randwick, Sydney NSW 2031
Tel: (02) 9399 3344

The Tea Cozy

Who doesn’t love buttery scones and a pot of fragrant tea on a lazy Sunday afternoon? The Tea Cozy serves one of the best scones in town! Ranging from the classic flavours like Buttermilk (plain) to their daily specialty scones.

All scones come with your choice of jam and double thick cream. I love how you can always get the best of both worlds with the jams available. Both the classic flavours (Strawberry jam) and the adventurous ones like Pawpaw, Lime and Passionfruit jam. My favourite is definitely the Pear and Vanilla jam! Living up to its name, it brings in an amazing range of Irish teas. Some unique ones that I totally adore are the Crème Brulee tea and Green Tea with Strawberry!

33 George Street
The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9247 3233

Pancakes On The Rocks

Pancakes are huge in Australia. Anyone who first arrived in Sydney will definitely be directed to Pancakes On The Rocks. Some even said if you have not tried the pancakes here, you have not been to Sydney!

Obviously, I’ve a sweet tooth and my favourite is the Hot ‘N’ Troppo dessert pancake! It has two huge buttermilk pancakes topped with cream, chocolate ice cream, walnuts that add an extra crunch to the dessert and grilled bananas on the side for that fruity touch! Of course not forgetting the home made chocolate drizzle to complete this heart-warming plate. The Hot ‘N; Troppo is a sure winner among the many sweet pancakes on the Menu!

4 Hickson Road
The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: (02) 9683 4322

Bourke Street Bakery

You know a place is special when it makes you sit up and take notice. Okay, maybe I am not getting the point across, let’s try this again. To use the word ‘special’, is an understatement. My experience at Bourke Street Bakery was mind-blowing. Everything that we had was so good. Lemon curd tart, croissant, chocolate tart, strawberry and vanilla brulee tart, flourless chocolate cake – wow!!

“We should definitely come back again.” I overheard this as two guests were leaving the bakery. I think it tells you everything you need to know about Bourke Street Bakery.

633 Bourke Street
Surry Hills, Sydney NSW 2010
Tel: (02) 9699 1011

Chocolateria San Churro

It’s not easy to find good churros in Singapore. For those who don’t know, Churro is a Spanish Doughnut. When I first arrive in Sydney, everyone was talking about San Churro. The churros here got to be one of the better ones that I’ve had. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with cinnamon sugar. It comes with San Churro Chocolate dips of white, milk, dark, hazelnut choc or caramel. If you like really sweet stuff, go for the white, and the dark is the perfect choice for bittersweet lovers.

At San Churro, apart from the churros, you will want to give their drinks a go, namely, Hot and Cold. It comes with a white chocolate ice cream in your classic hot chocolate. Something worth trying out in Sydney!

47 Glebe Point Road
Glebe, Sydney NSW 2037
Tel: (02) 9692 0119

Adriano Zumbo

If you are a Masterchef fan, you might have heard of Adriano Zumbo, the man behind this wonderful Adriano Zumbo Patisserie. Zumbo is known for the creative flavours of macarons and desserts. Think Pancake & Maple Syrup or Custard Crunch flavoured macarons. Doesn’t this make you want to get some?

I would like to point out that apart from the macarons, what I truly love is the Passionfruit Tart. It’s filled with the fragrance of passionfruit with every bite, sweet with a hint of sourness. The crust adds the crunch to the soft fillings of the tart. It is so addictive with each mouthful that you want to go back for more!

Shop 1 Café Court, The Star
80 Pyrmont Steet, Sydney NSW 2009
Tel: (02) 9777 9000

Messina

I know we have already listed the top 10 dessert places in Sydney, but here’s a bonus if you love ice cream. Messina – voted the best gelato in Australia by the Good Food Guide – is located along the streets of Darlinghurst and is constantly jam packed with people from evening onwards!

Trust me, during winter one would think that the business for any ice cream parlors would slow down, but this is not true for Messina. They have a wide variety of unique ice cream flavours and there is a favourite for everyone! Not to forget, they also have a wide range of sorbets for the fruity people!

241 Victoria Street
Darlinghurst, Sydney NSW 2010
Tel: (02) 8354 1223

About the writer:
Just like that foodie friend of yours, Natalie is one who hunts down all the yummy food places and will want to order every single dish on the menu! Especially if it comes to dessert! With a strong passion for food and writing, she started a little writing space on Tumblr and her journey begins. You can read about Natalie’s adventures in Sydney here.

I’ve had the chance to go on different media junkets over the last few years, and while all of them are very special, my recent trip to Sydney with Scoot Airlines was particularly memorable. We were part of Scoot’s inaugural flight, we ate our way around the city, we went skydiving, as well as the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. It was in short, an awesome trip.

With my awesome travel partner Dawn

It is so much easier to get to Sydney from Singapore now that Scoot is flying there. Here are some things you can do in Sydney, read on to find out about our adventure!

After checking into Amora Hotel (11 Jamison Street Sydney New South Wales 2000, Australia 02 9696 2500), we went off for lunch at Sailor Thai (106 George Street The Rocks New South Wales 2000, Australia Tel: +61 02 9251 2466) – a popular restaurant at The Rocks known for serving good Thai food.

It is divided into two sides: at the restaurant, you can get exquisite Thai food in a fine dining setting; while over at the ‘canteen’, they serve the classic street food which are much more affordable.

We managed to try quite a few dishes such as pad Thai (A$17), curry puffs filled with sweet potato (A$10), crispy pork belly in sweet & sour sauce (A$27), grilled wagyu beef with tamarind and chilli sauce (A$29), and green papaya salad (A$25). A great start to our Sydney adventure!

After lunch, we popped by the Museum of Contemporary Art (140 George Street Sydney Tel: +61 02 9245 2400),  just a few steps down the road. There, you get to see contemporary art from across Australia, and they also have an collection of aboriginal art.

It started to pour as we left the museum, but the rain did not stop us from visiting Sydney Opera House, which is undoubtedly one of the most recognisable images of the modern world.

I’ve only been to the outside of Sydney Opera House before, so I was really happy that we had a guided tour within the beautiful arts centre this time around. It was really fascinating to hear about the stories of the building, though I have to admit that I did not manage to catch everything that the guide told us as I was feeling the effect of after-lunch sleepiness.

We had dinner at Cruise (Level 2, Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay West, The Rocks; Tel: +61 2 9251 1118) – a nice restaurant sitting at the edge of Circular Quay which offers a stunning view of the harbour.

We started with a seared beef salad (A$18) as an appetiser. This was followed by the choice of either a grilled king salmon ($36), or a steak (A$38). For the price, the food was sadly, unremarkable. But still, I guess we cannot complain since we got to dine with a fantastic view.

Photo credit: Dawn Yang

If it is your first time visiting Sydney, you must do climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There are different packages to choose from: the express climb, a two hour and fifteen minutes climb, the fastest way to the top of the bridge; or the the bridge climb, a three and a half hour journey that takes you along the outer arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit.

While it is not cheap to climb the bridge (A$218), I think it is a fantastic experience (more on this in another post) – definitely one of the things that you must do at least once.

All of us were starving after our “workout”, so we were happy to go to Otto Ristorante (8/6 Cowper Wharf Road Woolloomooloo Tel: +61 02 9368 7488) for lunch.

The food was good, and in particular, the mushroom risotto was one of the best I’ve ever had. Most of the pastas are priced between A$26-29; while you can also find main courses such as duck breast (A$39), and eye fillet of Angus beef (A$44).

Next, we visited some of the best vintage outlets in Surry Hills and Paddington with a personalised guide. Although I am not a fan of vintage things, it was nice to walk around the charming area.

For dinner that night, we went to Balla (Level G, Harbour Side, The Star, 80 Pyrmont Street Tel: +61 02 9567 9129) – a modern interpretation of the classic Osteria Milanese – at The Star, Sydney’s one-of-a-kind entertainment venue, where you can find fine dining restaurants, casino, bars, and entertainment.

As we were rushing to catch a musical, we could only sample the 2 course pre theatre menu, which came with an antipasti platter and a choice of three main courses: wood-grilled lamb rump, potato gnocchi, and wood-grilled tuna.

I am so glad that we were able to watch ‘An officer and a gentleman’ the musical at the Lyric Theatre, The Star. The performers were uber-talented, and by the end of the show, I was left speechless and all I could do was to give them a big round of applause.

The next day, we went on a road-trip down south of Sydney, along the coast of Wollongong. After an hour drive, we reached Bald Hill, one of the most well famous lookouts with excellent 360 degree views over the Pacific Ocean and the New South Wales coast. It is also a popular place for hang gliding, an activity that I would love to try in the future.

We had the chance to go on the Harley Davidson motorcycles, and it was a nice ride down the coast, and through the quaint seaside villages.

Photo credit: Skydive the beach

Another highlight of this journey was jumping off a plane! It was, and still is, one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. You can read about my skydiving experience here.

After the adrenaline rush, we went back to Sydney, and for our last meal of the tour, we went to Ms G restaurant (155 Victoria Street Potts Point Australia Tel: +61 2 8313 1000) – a cool and funky modern Asian restaurant which sprawls over four floors – the perfect place to hang out with your friends over cocktails and delicious food.

This is where we say goodbye to our Scoot adventure. This is, however, not the end of my Sydney trip. I still have a few stories to share with you guys next week, so see you again!

Full Disclosure & Fine Print: I travelled to Sydney as a guest of Scoot Airlines and Destination NSW. No monetary benefits were received, only air tickets and hotel accommodations were sponsored.

Let me begin with a confession about me being a scaredy-cat. I hated outdoor adventures, I hated horror movies, I hated roller coasters, I hated anything that was (then deemed as) too scary. But that was a few years ago, and I have since changed to someone who is now open-minded and receptive towards embracing new phases and challenges.

So, when Scoot and Destination NSW arranged for us to attempt skydiving (OMG!!!) during our ‘Scoot off to Sydney trip‘, I knew it was something that I had to try at least once in my life despite my innate fear.

I literally took a leap of faith, and jumped out of the plane. To say that skydiving is amazing, would be an understatement. Trust me, it is one of the best things you can do in your life – I am so glad that I’ve tried it.

If you’ve always wanted to try skydiving, read on to find out about my experience.  After finishing this post, make sure you book a ticket on Scoot and go to Sydney for your first jump.

Skydive in Sydney Australia, here we go!

We did our jump at Wollongong – a beautiful seaside city located just south of Sydney. It is quite possibly one of the best places in Australia you can skydive as you get a magnificent view of the coastal area.

Before the dive, we were listening to people who have done it before, and it was kind of intimidating for Dawn (my awesome travelling partner for this trip) and I. Still, nothing was going to stop us, and we proceeded to sign the indemnity form. Gulp.

Preparation was a breeze with the help from the well-trained staff, and after everything was done, we took a 20 minutes bus ride to the airport.

When the plane took off, all nervous thoughts were gone. At 14,000 ft, the view was incredible. I was too busy looking at the beautiful coast to be afraid, and even though I was the first one to jump, I did not feel tense at all.

And then, the jump. Everything happened so quickly. All I remember was jumping off the plane, and in an instance, I was free-falling (which lasted for 60 seconds). It was absolutely amazing (for the lack of a better word). Amazing, amazing, amazing! Then, I felt a gentle pull, and the parachute was up. We began to descend slowly; it was really peaceful and nice. At that point, it felt as though I had the whole world to myself. I have never felt so peaceful and happy in my life.

From the fluffy white clouds; to the clear blue skies; to the cars (they looked like toys) moving around, to the powerful waves splashing towards the coast; and the breathtaking view of the whole Wollongong – I could see everything so clearly.

My instructor showed me how to control the parachute, and I had fun turning us around. Shortly after, we landed. I could not stop smiling to myself – it is definitely one of the best memories in my life. I am happy to tick this off my bucket list. Skydiving is not scary at all. It is something that everyone must try it at least once.

And of course, the life-changing experience does not come cheap. Tandem skydive is A$285 on weekdays, and A$339 on weekends. You can check out Skydive the Beach Sydney for more information.

Full Disclosure & Fine Print: I travelled to Sydney as a guest of Scoot Airlines and Destination NSW. No monetary benefits were received, only air tickets and hotel accommodations were sponsored.