Spring has arrived and what better time to get out and explore the beautiful harbour, parks and hidden laneways of our city?
The Sydney Culture Walks app is a personal guide in your pocket. With a focus on art, architecture, history and cultural landmarks, it helps you uncover stories and little-known facts about Sydney’s streets and suburbs.
Check out our top 5 recommended walks to see the city in a new light or discover it for the first time. Walk a section, combine a few or wander wherever curiosity takes you – there's plenty to see.
Barani – Sydney Cove/ Warrane
Areas covered: Sydney Harbour and major landmarks
Walk length: 4.5km, 1-1.5 hours
Explore sites of cultural significance and artistic expression – places where some of the earliest interactions took place between Aboriginal peoples and the British in Sydney.
You’ll take in sweeping views of Sydney Harbour as you walk through the Domain and Royal Botanic Garden, past Bennelong Point and around to Dawes Point/Tar-Ra. This route connects the city’s natural beauty with the deep cultural history of First Nations people.
Passage
Areas covered: Customs House to Millers Point
Walk length: 3.4km, 1-2 hours
The Rocks and Millers Point have been shaped by centuries of change. Yet among the modern skyline, you’ll still find traces of Sydney’s earliest days, from sandstone pubs and churches to archaeological sites and heritage terraces.
Explore the city’s layers of history and the stories of those who lived and worked by the harbour over generations.
Passion
Areas covered: Kings Cross, Potts Point and Elizabeth Bay
Walk length: 2.2km, around 50 minutes
Once the domain of grand houses and stylish apartments, Kings Cross evolved into the city’s red-light district and entertainment zone that never sleeps.
But along with sailors, soldiers, tourists and suburbanites out for a night on the town, it has also been home to Sydney’s Bohemia – the haunt of artists, actors, writers and musicians.
Starting at Kings Cross, you’ll wander down Victoria Street to Embarkation Park, through to Elizabeth Bay House and Fitzroy Gardens, finishing on Darlinghurst Road. Along the way, discover a colourful mix of architecture, stories and characters that have shaped this beloved neighbourhood.
Preservation
Areas covered: Glebe
Walk length: 5.9km, 2-3 hours
The Glebe Point area became fashionable in the 19th century, while the southern end became a working-class district. After falling into decline in the early 20th century, Glebe saw a resurgence in the 1960s as people rediscovered its charm. With its rich architectural heritage, proximity to the city and connection to the University of Sydney, Glebe became one of Australia’s first gentrified suburbs.
Walk through a place known for its bohemian lifestyle, activism and intellectual energy. Starting at University Hall, make your way through Glebe Town Hall, Foley Park and Wentworth Park, past the Sze Yup Chinese Temple and the former Valhalla Cinema – just a few highlights along this historically layered route.
Port
Areas covered: Pyrmont
Walk length: 2.7km, 1-2 hours
Once the industrial heart of Sydney, the Pyrmont peninsula was home to wharves, woolstores and factories that drove the city’s economic growth.
Uncover the neighbourhood’s maritime and industrial past, as well as the stories of the community that lived and worked here. Starting at Pyrmont Bridge, you’ll pass the Australian National Maritime Museum, Pirrama Park, historic schools and the Pyrmont–Ultimo war memorial – with plenty more heritage sites along the way.
Ready to go?
Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a full day of discovery, the Sydney Culture Walks app makes it easy to experience the city at your own pace. Each walk is packed with stories, photos and points of interest, ready to guide you through Sydney’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Download the Sydney Culture Walks app from the App Store or Google Play and start walking today.
You can also view the accessible versions of every walk here.