Discover our top picks for the best experiences in Sydney, perfect for planning your dream week.
Vivid has transformed Sydney this week, filling the city with dazzling lights and breathtaking projections that bring the streets, harbour and buildings to life. Make sure to check out one of the bustling zones this week and make use of all the free activities and installations on offer.
Head to a free jazz night in the Rocks or go to see one of the fabulous theatre productions wowing audiences across the city.
If you’re drawn to nature, hop on a whale-watching cruise and witness some of nature’s most magnificent creatures up close. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is also running, featuring imagery that captures the beauty and drama of the natural world.
For more information on AFL matches, the Great Australasian Beer Festival, Sydney markets and the best deals in city, read on.
Don’t forget you can save big with our offers, including 15 per cent off whale watching trips and 55 per cent off attractions.
Things to do in Sydney this week
Events
1. Vivid Sydney 2025
Well we couldn’t do a guide to what’s on this week without mentioning it, could we? Sydney’s biggest winter festival returns on Friday, and it’s everywhere already. Illuminating the city with dazzling projections, light displays and cutting-edge art installations. Last year, 2.42 million people visited the festival, with an even larger audience expected in 2025. This year’s theme is ‘Dream’, inviting visitors into otherworldly realms by means of immersive installations.
The city is being split into five zones: Circular Quay and the Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, the Goods Line and Inner City, and Martin Place. Special guests will be popping up, too, including the Queen of cooking, Nigella Lawson, and OG influencer Martha Stewart.
Visit our Vivid Sydney 2025 hub for everything you need to know about this year’s festival, from free events to where to eat.
Where: Citywide.
When: Friday, May 23 until Saturday, June 14.
Price: Varies per attraction.
2. Try Vegemite beer and chocolate orange stout at the Great Australasian Beer Festival
The annual Great Australian Beer Festival, now one of the worldโs biggest beer festivals, has been known to get a bit wacky with experimental brews. Each year, breweries from around the world descend upon Australiaโs major capitals for this travelling bastion of beer. Beer lovers line up along the countryโs longest pop-up bar to sample from 120 taps all running on one line.
This yearโs lineup is as surprising as ever, with milk chocolate orange stout, Vegemite beer and a green ant and emu bush tucker beer among the brews on offer.
In total, 500 beer taps taking over the ICC in Darling Harbour, sitting alongside other drinks including cocktails, whiskies, wines and non-alcoholic flavours to present a fully-rounded scope of what drinking looks like in 2025.
Where: ICC, Darling Harbour.
When: Friday May 30-Saturday May 31, 2025.
Price: From $42.
READ MORE: Vegemite and stale bread beer? GABS Festival brings bizarre brews to Sydney
3. Jazz Sessions in the Rocks
Jazz Sessions in the Rocks is back this Thursday, bringing the toe-tapping tunes of Australian jazz to Sydney. Itโs free, funky, and in one of our favourite parts of Sydney’s CBD. Pop over to the Rocks Square after work (or for a pre- or post-dinner treat) and sip on a cocktail from Hickson House as you watch the live performances.
This week, Sydney-based jazz trio Andrew, Abby and also Arty will be performing. Known for their 60s soul and groovy organ ensemble-inspired sound, the band will be entertaining audiences from 6:30pm onwards.
Where: The Rocks Square, Playfair St, The Rocks, NSW 2000.
When: May 29, 6pm (doors open)-8:30pm.
Price: Free.
4. The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes Exhibition
The Archibald, Wynne, and Sulman Prizes Exhibition is back! The winners were announced on May 9, and the exhibition opened the following day. Head to the Art Gallery of NSW to see Julie Fragar’s ethereal portrait, Flagship Mother Multiverse (Justene), which was awarded the prestigious 2025 Archibald Prize.
More than 2,390 artists entered their creations into this yearโs Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes, resulting in an incredible curation of Australian talent in the diverse and exciting work of the finalists. The pieces range from a mesmerising portrait of actress Nicole Kidman to a sunset painted on an old iPhone. Don’t miss out!
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Nura, Major exhibition gallery, Lower Level 2 Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Saturday, May 10 until Sunday, August 17, 2025.
Price: Adult $25, youth (12-17 years) $13, concession $22, member $20.
On Wednesdays, visitors from 5pm-10pm can book two tickets for the price of one.
READ MORE: โIt doesnโt get better than thatโ: The 2025 winners of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes
5. GLOW at Sydney Zoo
This is the last week to give a different light show a chance and avoid the crowded, Vivid-obsessed CBD. Shining brighter than ever, Sydney Zoo’s light festival features more than 200 new animal lanterns and interactive sculptures, alongside rides, food trucks, free activities and more Instagram-worthy moments than you could possibly ask for.
TOP TIP: Visit on Tuesday night for half-price tickets.
When: Daily until Saturday, May 30 from 5:30pm.
Price: Adult $44.99 on the gate or $34.99 when pre-booked; child $34.99 on the gate or $24.99 when pre-booked.
6. Whale watching
The migration season is officially underway (in fact, it started earlier this year) so it’s time to head to the water’s edge, armed with your binoculars and cameras. There are several whale-watching cruises available, including Fantasea Cruising and Captain Cook Cruises. But there are plenty of viewpoints where you can spot passing humpbacks free of chargeโand on solid ground. Take a look at the top coastal vantage points here.
When: Now through to July (peaking in June/July) and again from August through to November.
Price: From free up to $100+, depending on your choice of excursion.
7. Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Now in its 60th year, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition returns to showcase the very best in global wildlife photography. Produced by the Natural History Museum in London, a team of judges whittle down thousands of entries to reveal the best of the best. More than 59,220 photographers entered their snaps into last yearโs competition, with participants coming from over 115 countries and territories all over the world.
The exhibition will remind you of the incredible diversity, splendour and fragility of nature, a testament to the photographer’s patience and eye when capturing these rare moments.
When: Until Sunday, October 19. The Museum is open daily 10amโ4pm.
Where: Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, NSW 2000.
Price: Adult $35, child $25, family $89.
READ MORE: Catch a glimpse of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition
Shows
8. Sing along to MJ the Musical
MJ The Musical continues its stint at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Head to Pyrmont to see the King of Popโs famous choreography come to life in this thrilling musical biopic. Roman Banks has been highly acclaimed for his portrayal of MJ, as has Brisbane-based actor Liam Damons, who is making his professional theatre debut playing the star in his younger years.
Where: 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009.
When: Selected dates until Sunday, August 23.
Price: From $70 to $240.
9. Watch The Wrong Gods at Belvoir St Theatre
The Wrong Gods has been taking Sydney by storm, racking up some brilliant reviews as it impresses audiences through its thought-provoking storyline. The play follows the bold, young Isha, who makes a deal with a stranger, putting the fate of her community in a state of disarray. Exploring themes of tradition, ambition and mother-daughter conflict, The Wrong Gods manages to be funny, moving and quietly political. Head to the Belvoir St Theatre in Surry Hills to see it for yourself.
When: May 3- June 1, 2025.
Where: 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.
Price: Tickets start at $41.
10. See Anthony Warlow starring in Annie
Annie is back in Sydney at the Capitol Theatre in Haymarket. Directed by Karen Johnson Mortimer, the story of the orphan and the billionaire features a talented cast, including Broadway star Anthony Warlow and original Wiggle Greg Page (who will be making his musical theatre debut). The crowd-pleasing musical also stars a real-life dog as Sandy and special digital projections to add some excitement to the show.
When: Until June 21.
Where: Capitol Theatre, 3 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000.
Price: Tickets start at $90.
READ MORE: Annie musical review: the new Sydney show really is different
11. Get your Book of Mormon tickets
Tickets to The Book of Mormon’s highly anticipated return to Sydney are now available for purchase. The hilarious production will premiere at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney from July 15 2025. The boundary-pushing musical follows two young Mormon missionaries as they travel to Uganda and try and convert the villagers to Mormonism, with little luck. Grab your tickets now to see the multi-award-winning musical that promises big laughs and lots of fun.
Where: The Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: Begins July 15, 2025, but tickets are available to purchase now.
Price: From $69 per person.
Food
12. Free matcha and coffee at Harry’s Bondi
Their transparent cans of matcha are an Instagrammer’s dream, and they’ll no doubt be flocking to Bondi this weekend โ there’s free matcha and coffee up for grabs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Haircare brand Bondi Boost are celebrating the launch of their Lock Drops product range with a party at Harry’s. Boosting your mood and your roots, the first 200 customers on Friday and Saturday will get a free matcha or coffee.
Not in Bondi until Sunday? Don’t worry. Aussie dance DJ duo SACHI are putting on a pop-up party with Londoner Poppy Baskcomb. They’ve promised “free coffee, matcha and bangers.”
Where: Harry’s Bondi,
When: Every last Sunday of the month until September, 12pmโ4pm
13. The Apollo’s Gin and Jazz Nights return
Popular Potts Point restaurant, The Apollo, will be spotlighting gin and jazz every last Sunday of the month from this week until September. Greek food and a good time, exactly what we’re looking for through winter. This Sunday, the Soundcliff Jazz Trio will be playing from 12pm, inviting you to sip on gin martinis as you tap your foot along to the swinging live music.
Where: 44 Macleay St, Potts Point NSW 2011.
When: Every last Sunday of the month until September, 12pmโ4pm.
14. Black Star Pastry x South Dowling Sandwiches is here
Two of Sydneyโs most coveted institutions have teamed up to create a limited edition chilli chicken pie. Black Star Pastry have described this one-of-a-kind pie on their Instagram, stating:
โWeโre very excited to have joined forces with our friends at South Dowling Sandwiches to create a limited-edition pie โ a delicate, dome-shaped, pithivier-style pie filled with South Dowling Sandwichesโ signature caramelised carrots, spicy chilli chicken and vibrant red pesto, all encased in our renowned flaky, buttery pastry.โ
Where:
Black Star Pastry Stores: Rosebery, Newtown, Sydney CBD, Chatswood and Parramatta.
South Dowling Sandwiches: Darlinghurst, Alexandria and Millers Point.
When: May 22โJune 1.
Price: A two-pack of pies goes for $28.
Concerts
15. Jessica Pratt at the Sydney Opera House
American singer-songwriter will be performing in the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House on Wednesday, as part of Vivid Live. The Los Angeles-based singer perfectly encapsulates Vivid’s theme of “Dreams” with her mystical California psych-folk style. Returning to Australia after 10 years, Pratt’s Vivid Live debut is guaranteed to captivate audiences with her powerful lyrics and beguiling energy.
Where: The Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House.
When: May 28, from 7:30pm.
Price: Tickets start from $39.90.
16. Marlon Williams at the Sydney Opera House
Marlon Williams’ irresistible voice will fill the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House on Thursday, blending a genre-bending mix of country, bluegrass, folk and pop. The New Zealand singer-songwriter will perform music from his new Mฤori language album in his highly anticipated return to the Opera House.
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House.
When: May 29, from 7pm.
Price: From $69.90.
17. Bradley Simpson at the Metro Theatre
Singer, songwriter and frontman of the popular British band, the Vamps, Bradley Simpson is returning to Australia, but this time he’ll be performing tunes from his debut solo album, The Panic Years. Bradley’s new music centres around indie-rock, Americana, 80โs synth, psychedelia, however it still maintains that catchy pop energy that was so infectious from his time in the Vamps.
Where: The Metro Theatre, G2/624 George St, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: Friday, May 30, 7:30pm.
Price: From $83.90.
Markets
18. Le Marchรฉ French Markets
Bonjour! Le Marchรฉ French Markets will take over the Entertainment Quarter every first Sunday of the month. Juneโs market will feature over 45 stalls, selling all the best French goods and fashion, including cheeses, truffles, baguettes, berets and more. There will also be opportunities to try French wine and other delicious delicacies that will make you feel like youโre on the streets of Paris.
Where: 122 Lang Road, Moore Park NSW 2021.
When: Sunday, June 1, 9am-2:30pm.
Price: Free.
19. The Rocks Market
The Rocks Market is on every Saturday and Sunday, offering a vibrant mix of stalls, including art, food, drinks, antiques, clothing and more. Located in one of Sydneyโs most popular precincts, the Rocks market is a modern continuation of the areaโs tradition of commerce and activity. Check out which stalls will be making an appearance at the Rocks this weekend here.
Where: George St, The Rocks NSW 2000.
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 10am-5pm.
Price: Free.
20. Bondi Markets & Bondi Farmers Market
The Bondi Markets take place right opposite Sydneyโs most famous beach at Bondi Beach Public School. On Saturdays, the Bondi Farmers Market takes place, where stalls sell fresh produce, including groceries, freshly-baked goods, flowers and more. On Sundays, shop for more general goods, such as handmade jewellery, vintage clothing and unique homeware.
Where: Bondi Beach Public School, Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW 2026.
When: Bondi Farmers Markets: every Saturday, 9am-1pm. Bondi Markets: every Sunday 10am-4pm.
Price: Free.
21. Kirribilli Markets
The Kirribilli Markets are some of the oldest markets in Sydney, with the first one taking place in 1976 in the backyard of the then newly opened Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. Now, the markets feature over 220 stalls, selling things from gourmet food to handmade jewellery. The markets normally have a theme to describe which stalls will be present, for example, this weekโs is โGeneral & Fashion”
Shop for new and second hand fashion, antiques and collectables, homewares and so much more. As the name suggests, you’ll find pretty much everything at this week’s market.
Where: 70-72 Alfred St S, Milsons Point NSW 2061.
When: Saturday, May 24 from 8:30am-3pm.
Price: Free.
22. Glebe Markets
The best market in the Inner West features a beautifully chaotic blend of everything, including vintage clothing, jewellery, crochet figures and croc jibbitz. Thereโs also great food, drink and produce on offer, especially the variety of baked goods, coffees and matcha lattes. If thatโs not enough to entice you, every week, talented musicians grace the Glebe Markets stage to keep visitors entertained.
Where: Glebe Public School, Derby Place, Glebe Point Rd, Glebe NSW 2037.
When: Every Saturday, 10am-4pm.
Price: Free.
23. Carriageworks Farmers Markets
This one’s been all over our FYP recently, with all ages loving the offering. Carriageworks Farmers Markets is a celebration of fresh produce, vibrant bouquets, fresh seafood, grass-fed beef and seasonal fruit and veg (to name a few). Head over to Eveleigh on a Saturday to upgrade your pantry with organic goods.
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015.
When: Every Saturday, 8amโ1pm.
Price: Free.
24. Paddington Markets
Paddington markets have been open since 1973 and are the birthplace of many popular Australian brands. Dinosaur Designs, Zimmerman, Sass and Bide all began selling their designs at the Paddo markets. There are over 150 stalls at these markets, selling jewellery, clothes, sunglasses, art and antiques. There are also plenty of delicious food options, including popular stall Bobo Bakery, who are known for their burnt caramel cookies and brownie boxes.
Where: Paddington Uniting Church, 395 Oxford Street, Paddington, NSW 2021.
When: Every Saturday: Full Market 10amโ4pm, Growers Market from 9amโ3pm.
Price: Free.
25. Paddyโs Markets
Take some time to check out the hustle and bustle of Sydneyโs oldest and largest market. Set on the edge of Chinatown, this is a shopping experience like no other, You can find fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, meat, souvenirs, hats, leather goods, watches, sunglasses, cosmetics, toys, shoes, Ugg boots, mobile phone accessories, luggage, jewellery, homewares and much more. Hungry? Head to Hay St Market, a huge food market with cuisines from all over the world as well as coffee roasters and licensed bars to quench your thirst.
Where: 9/13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW 2000.
When: WednesdayโSunday, 10amโ6pm.
Price: Free.
Shopping
26. Queen Victoria Building
Known to locals as the QVB, this historic covered arcade is an architectural landmark dating back to 1989. Itโs home to luxury global brands, high-street retail and the Queen Victoria Tea Room, famous for its high tea. Itโs conveniently located next to plenty of transport networks, sitting on top of Town Hall station and right next to the QVB light rail stop.
Where: Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
When: Monday to Saturday (9am-6pm), Thursday (9am-9pm), Sunday (11am-5pm)
27. The Strand Arcade
Sydneyโs only remaining Victorian-style shopping arcade is based on early 1800s European architecture. Here, discover luxury Australian brands such as Bassike and Camilla and Marc, along with high-end milliners, vintage watches an inventive jewellery.
Where: The Strand Arcade, 412- 414, George Street, Sydney NSW 2000.
When: MondayโFriday (9:30amโ5:30pm), Thursday (9amโ9pm), Saturday (9 amโ4pm), Sunday (11amโ4pm).
28. Westfield Sydney
Built around the iconic Sydney Tower, Westfield Sydney houses some of the worldโs most exclusive brands, along with high-end services such as valet parking and personal styling. With more than 280 retailers over four levels, shop โtil you drop or window gaze at Tommy Hilfiger, Fendi, Christian Louboutin, Chanel and more.
Where: Westfield Sydney, Cnr Pitt St Mall and Market Street NSW 2000.
When: MondayโSaturday (9:30amโ7pm), Thursday (9:30amโ9pm), Sunday (10amโ7pm).
29. Bondi Junction Westfield
This sprawling retail centre in Sydneyโs busy Bondi Junction is a one-stop shop for luxurious, global brands. Fashion-forward labels here include Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Christian Louboutin and Tiffany & Co. Spread over seven levels, itโs easy to get lost- seek the concierge desks dotted throughout.
Where: 500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022.
When: MondayโWednesday (9:30am-6pm), Thursday (9:30am-9pm), Friday (9:30am-7pm), Saturday (9:30am-6pm), Sunday (10am-6pm).
30. DFO Homebush
Located in western Sydney, DFO Homebush is home to premium and luxury international brands, sports and lifestyle brands and many food and beverage outlets too. Spread across two levels, this shopping centre has everything shoppers could possibly need.
Visiting from outside of Sydney? The DFO Tourism Passport grants visitors who live more than 50km away access to more than 30 exclusive offers and discounts. Shop for fashion, accessories, homeware and more at discounted prices. Simply scan the QR code on the website to find out if youโre eligible to access the DFO Tourism Passport. For information on all the special offers available across the shopping centre, make sure to check here.
Where: 3-5 Underwood Rd, Homebush NSW 2140
When: Open daily 10amโ6pm, except Thursdays 10amโ8pm
READ MORE: DFO Homebush: the ultimate shopping outlet guide
31. Double Bay
Among the leafy streets, secret lanes, and little arcades of the harbourside village of Double Bay lie some seriously chic luxury boutiques. Browse at Aco. for a multi-brand curation of contemporary clothing, admire glamorous jewellery adored by celebrities at Jan Logan and donโt miss Belinda International, for a treasure trove of designers from around the globe.
Where: Start at Aco: 15A Transvaal Ave, Double Bay NSW 2028
When: MondayโSaturday (10 amโ5pm), Sunday (11amโ3pm)
32. Birkenhead Point
Discover hundreds of top designer brands at discounted prices at Birkenhead Point outlet shopping mall. Save on Calvin Klein, Armani, Coach, Country Road and more. Get there via a private water taxi from Circular Quay for the 20-minute ride to Birkenhead- itโs a fantastic way to see the harbour, too.
Where: Birkenhead Point, 19 Roseby Street, Drummoyne, NSW 2047
When: MondayโFriday (10am-5:30pm), Thursday (10am-7:30pm), Saturday (9am-6pm), Sunday (10am-6 pm)
Sport
33. AFL: Sydney Swans v Adelaide Crows
Sydney Swans fans will be donning red and white as they take on the Adelaide Crows at the SCG this Saturday. Head to any pub in Paddington to watch the game and soak in the atmosphere, or grab tickets and see it live.
Where: Sydney Cricket Ground, Moore Park, NSW.
When: Saturday, May 31, 7:35pm.
Price: From $60.
34. AFL: GWS Giants v Richmond
The GWS Giants take on Richmond at the ENGIE Stadium. Let’s hope the Giants can beat the Melbourne team, especially as they finished last on the AFL ladder in 2024. Head to the Sydney Olympic Park to show your support for the Giants
Where: ENGIE Stadium, Grand Parade, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127.
When: Saturday, May 31, 4:15pm.
Price: From $27.
Deals and Competitions
35. Combine and save at SEA LIFE Sydney
SEA LIFE are offering a 2 attraction pass deal, where you can enjoy another attraction for just $10! Pick from either WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds, or Sydney Tower Eye and visit your second attraction within 30 days with your two-attraction pass.
You can also save money by buying a three-attraction pass- saving up to 55%.
36. Explore Sydney with one pass with Go City
Go City lets you explore all the best sights of Sydney, using one pass. You can save up to 50% on 40-plus Sydney attractions, tours and activities, including whale watching, Blue Mountain adventures and Hunter Valley food and wine tours. Pass prices start from $109.
37. Buy 4 tickets and save $60 at MJ the Musical
MJ The Musical continues its stint at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Head to Pyrmont to see the King of Popโs famous choreography come to life in this thrilling musical biopic.
For the best seats and prices, book a midweek show. You can also buy 4 tickets and save $60- the perfect bundle for family or friends.
38. Take 15% off your whale-watching cruise with the code ‘Stg15’
Go on an unforgettable whale watching cruise with Fantasea this year. You’ll get incredible, up-close views of the stunning creatures, as well as an unforgettable cruise of the iconic Sydney Harbour. Use the code ‘Stg15’ to take 15% off the price of your cruise. This code is valid on all Whale Watching Sydney cruises until September 1, 2025.
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