Australia

2-Day Itinerary For A Weekend With Kids In Sydney

48 Hours In Sydney: Fun Things To Do For Families

Weekend in Sydney Itinerary with Family at Taronga Zoo

Discovering the vibrant city of Sydney with kids in tow is an adventure like no other. In addition to plenty of sun, sand and sea, Sydney offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that promise excitement and wonder for all ages. With this action-packed itinerary, you’re sure to make the most of your 48 hours in Sydney with the kids, and get a healthy dose of chill and relaxation, Aussie style!

Whether you’re exploring the sandy shores of Balmoral Beach, marveling at the unique wildlife in Taronga Zoo, or embarking on a boat ride across Sydney Harbour, every moment is filled with opportunities for fun, learning, and unforgettable memories that will leave everyone smiling from ear to ear!

 

  • HOW TO GET TO SYDNEY:

    Flying to Sydney is a breeze with major airlines like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Scoot and Qantas providing direct flights. Once you arrive at Sydney Airport, you can catch a train from the airport terminal to the city center, with the journey taking around 13 minutes on the Airport Link train. From there, explore the city via the efficient public transport network of buses, trains, and ferries, or simply hail a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber for added convenience.

    Sydney AirportLinkwww.airportlink.com.au

  • Four Seasons Sydney Family Hotel

    WHERE TO STAY IN SYDNEY WITH KIDS:

    Sydney Family-Friendly Hotels

    Planning a family trip to Sydney and wondering where to stay? Look no further! Sydney has a wide array of family-friendly accommodation options that cater to every need and budget. From cozy boutique hotels to spacious apartments and resorts, there's something for every family size and preference.

    Sydney Family-Friendly HotelsClick here!

  • Koala at Taronga Zoo Sydney

    DAY 1 - MORNING:

    Wildlife Encounters at Taronga Zoo
    • Breakfast:

    Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bills in Surry Hills or any of their other locations that are convenient for you. This iconic café is known as the creator of avocado toast and the best eggs in town. Try the fluffy ricotta pancakes and creamy scrambled eggs, sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Or, just keep it easy and eat in your hotel.

    Bill’s, 355 Crown Street, Surry Hills, Sydney  NSW 2010, + 61 (02) 9360 4762, info@bills.com.au, www.bills.com.au

    • Taronga Zoo:

    Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! No visit to Sydney would be complete without a visit to the iconic Taronga Zoo. Hop on a ferry from Circular Quay directly to the zoo, and take in the spectacular views on the short ride.  Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, giraffes and much more as you explore the expansive grounds. Check out the free bird show, and keep an eye on the schedule so you don’t miss other animal shows and keeper talks, providing valuable insights into wildlife conservation. There's also an incredible hotel onsite called the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga that is worth splurging on for a night or two.

    Taronga Zoo,  Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, Sydney NSW 2088, +61 (02) 9969 2777, tz@zoo.nsw.gov.auwww.taronga.org.au.

    Open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. 

    • Lunch:

    You’ll want to maximize your time at the zoo, and it has plenty of options for lunch, whether you just need a light snack to keep you going, or a full meal. The Taronga Food Market has a range of hot and cold options to suit different palates and even dietary needs, from gluten-free to dairy-free. The Saltwater Bistro offers tacos and burgers with sweeping harbor views.

    Taronga Food Market, www.taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo/visitor-information/food-and-drink

    Open daily 11am-3pm

  • Bather's Bistro Pavilion Restaurant Balmoral Beach Sydney

    Day 1 – EARLY EVENING:

    Balmoral Beach Vibes
    • Bathers’ Bistro at Bathers' Pavilion, Balmoral Beach:

    Hop on the bus or in an Uber and head to beautiful Balmoral Beach. An institution in Mosman, Bather’s Pavilion is a historical building on the shores of Balmoral with several restaurants. The Bistro offers modern Australian fare, the perfect spot to take in the sunset over the sparkling waters after a glorious day at the zoo. You can also check out the Thai restaurant or more formal dining room.

    Bathers’ Bistro, 4 The Esplanade, Balmoral, Sydney NSW 2088, +61 (02) 9969 5050, eat@batherspavilion.com.au, www.batherspavilion.com.au/

    Open Daily 8am-10pm

  • DAY 2 - MORNING

    Adventures On The Harbor
    • Breakfast:

    Start your day with a visit to The Grounds of Alexandria, a whimsical café and garden oasis with barnyard animals. This insta-famous spot is perfect for families to enjoy a hearty breakfast amidst lush greenery and playful décor. Psst, Mom - there's also a Lululemon outlet next door!

    The Grounds of Alexandria, Building 7A, 2 Huntley St, Alexandria, Sydney NSW, 2015, +61 (2) 9699 2225, www.thegrounds.com.au,

    Open daily from 7:30am-4pm.

    • Thunder Jet Boat

    Now it’s time to push the boat out, literally. Hop aboard the Thunder Jet at Circular Quay for an action-packed heart-pumping 30-minute joyride around Sydney’s harbor, taking in the sights alongside wild spins and tricks. Don your poncho and life vest and get ready for the ride of your life! Suitable for kids from aged 5 upwards.

    Thunder Jet Boat, Circular Quay Eastern Pontoon, Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, +61 (02) 9566 1066, info@thunderjet.com.au, www.thunderjetboat.com.au

    Open weekdays 12pm-3pm and weekends 11am-4pm.

  • Thunder Jet Boat Harbor Boat Ride

    DAY 2 – AFTERNOON:

    Culture Vultures
    • Lunch

    Grab a delicious sweet or savory crêpe at Four Frogs Crêperie.  There are tons of flavors to choose from, ranging from traditional French vibes to modern Aussie-inspired. The kid’s menu is great for little froggies, and comes with crayons and a coloring-in placemat.

    Four Frogs Crêperie, Gateway, 1 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000,  +61 (02) 9241 2277, info@fourfrogs.com.au, www.fourfrogs.com.au/

    Open 11am till late Mon – Fri, 10am till late Saturday, 10am – 7.30pm Sunday

    • Australian Museum:

    Spend the afternoon at the Australian Museum, where kids can unleash their inner explorer and discover the wonders of natural history. From dinosaur skeletons to interactive exhibits, check online to see what’s on, as there's plenty to see and do to keep the whole family entertained.

    Australian Museum, 1 William Street, Sydney NSW 2010, +61 (02) 9320 6000, visit@australian.museum, www.australian.museum,

    Open Mon-Wed: 9am-9pm, Thurs-Sun: 9am-5pm

  • DAY 2 – EVENING:

    Cozy Comfort Food

    Barbetta

    Barbetta is a charming Italian trattoria that effortlessly combines authentic cuisine with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the comforting aromas of homemade pasta. Try the ‘best ever’ lasagne, just like nonna makes!  And keep an eye out for cooking classes on their website – they do fun kids pasta making courses for aspiring bambini chefs.

    Barbetta, 2 Elizabeth St, Paddington, Sydney NSW 2021, +61 (02) 9331 0088, www.barbetta.com.au

    Open Mon-Weds 7am-4pm, Thur-Fri 7am-4pm, 5pm-10pm, Sat 730-4pm, 530pm-10pm, Sun 8am-4pm 

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