Darling Harbour – The Ultimate Guide to Darling Harbour, Sydney
Darling Harbour boasts one of the best locations in Sydney. Perfectly positioned adjacent to Sydney’s city centre, this harbour offers visitors easy access to some of Sydney’s top attractions. From amazing bars, restaurants and cafes, to theatres, a zoo, museums, and other exciting attractions, Darling Harbour makes for the perfect stop off when in Sydney.
The harbour is steeped in history and served as part of the commercial port during the 19th Century. Today, it is filled with things to do and things to see along the beautiful backdrop of Sydney’s city centre.
With Darling Harbour offering so much choice for things to do, deciding how to spend your time can be tricky. Simply walking around Darling Harbour is a great experience, offering a real buzz and excitement. But for those looking for something to do, we’ve listed out our top 6 things to do for anyone who wants to spend a day in Darling Harbour and get the most out of this amazing spot.
1. Hire a Boat
For those groups looking for something extra special to do in Darling Harbour, why not hire a chartered boat, and enjoy the area from the comfort of a luxury boat? Just imagine a day out on the harbour, soaking up the sun and swimming at the bays. The smell of the BBQ cooking and the ocean breeze all around you. It certainly beats fighting over a spot around Sydney’s busy beaches.
Darling Harbour offers some incredible views of Sydney and having a moment to sit back and simply enjoy the views from your private boat is certainly something you’ll remember forever.
There are boats that cater to all different size groups and budgets, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance with choosing the right one for you.
For more info about hiring a boat in Sydney, get in touch with our friendly team who can help create unforgettable memories around Sydney’s waterways. Karisma Cruises can offer BYO options or a fully catered and serviced experience.
2. Chinese Garden of Friendship
After a day exploring any city, you can often find yourself looking for a quiet place to relax and unwind. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is the ideal place for anyone wanting a bit of peace and relaxation. This city garden offers traditional Chinese architecture, botanicals and creates a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. There are often events in these gardens throughout the year, so check for any that you may be interested in as well. Guided tours are also available for those who want to learn more about Chinese traditions and beliefs while enjoying the beautiful setting.
The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a gem within Sydney and is certainly worth visiting. The serenity of this garden will set you up for the rest of the week.
3. Museums and Attractions
There are a handful of museums in Darling Harbour, so you may want to have a think about what you’d like to see before arriving. The Australian National Maritime Museum is a popular choice and offers visitors the chance to board a replicate of Captain Cook’s HMB Endeavour. This museum celebrates Australia’s rich maritime history and provides an interactive experience. Learn more at http://www.anmm.gov.au/.
For those looking to update their Instagram page, a stop off at Madame Tussauds is certainly worth it. Get pictures next to lifelike celebrities at this iconic attraction. This is the only Madame Tussauds in Australia so it’s not to be missed.
The Powerhouse Museum, dedicated to applied arts and sciences, is also easily accessible from Darling Harbour. This museum offers various exhibitions so keep up to date on what’s on here – https://maas.museum/.
4. Zoo and Aquarium
Darling Harbour offers wildlife and animal lovers two world class attractions; Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo. But these locations also host events throughout the year, so keep your eyes pealed for anything that you may be interested in.
From kangaroos and koalas to sharks and stingrays, Darling Harbour gives you the chance to get up close and personal with Australia’s favourite wildlife.
Both these attractions are perfect for the whole family and are a great addition to any day out in the city.
5. Dine by the Water
Darling Harbour offers a range of restaurants, cafes and bars along the waterfront. From fine dining to grabbing a quick and affordable bite to eat, there is something for everyone. You’ll be able to order all sorts of food, from Italian, Asian, Middle-Eastern, to some traditional Australian favourites.
The location means that those that enjoy fresh seafood won’t be disappointed. Many restaurants will offer incredible seafood dishes that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
Cockle Bay Wharf hosts an array of top rated bars and restaurants worth exploring. You’ll be spoilt for choice so deciding where to eat will be the only obstacle between you and amazing food and drink.
The area also offers a great nightlife, with plenty of bars offering evening events and parties.
6. Shopping
For anyone in need of some retail therapy, Darling Harbour is the answer. The Harbourside Shopping Centre hosts lots of top rated shops to help you find anything from clothes and shoes, to some unique Australian souvenirs.
Harbourside Shopping Centre also includes activities such as Kingpin Bowling, Laser Tag, a Flight Simulator, 9D Motion Cinema. This makes for a fun-filled area that’ll keep the whole family entertained.
Darling Harbour with Karisma Cruises
We love Darling Harbour here at Karisma Cruises and we want you to get the most out of it as well. We live and work in this amazing part of Sydney and know it like the back of our hands. If you’d like us to help you enjoy Sydney from the water, and use our luxury boat for any occasion, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
From private parties and corporate events, to simply getting the most out of a day in Sydney, Karisma Cruises is the ultimate experience for enjoying this amazing city.