Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends

Reaching for the Stars and Touching the Sky

Today was a day of iconic Sydney experiences, a real deep dive into what makes this city so special. From stargazing at the Sydney Observatory to scaling the Harbour Bridge and marveling at the Opera House, it was a sensory overload in the best possible way. I couldn't wait to share all the details with you, so you can experience it yourself!

The day began with a hearty breakfast at AALIA Restaurant. I decided to try this spot, as I had heard some good things about it, and it was conveniently located. It was a delightful start to the day, fueling us up for our adventures. The Middle Eastern and North African-inspired dishes were a welcome change from the usual breakfast fare, with Executive Chef Paul Farag’s creativity really shining through. After breakfast, we made our way to the Sydney Observatory.


Discover the Sydney Observatory, a historic site blending astronomy and breathtaking views of Sydney's skyline for an unforgettable cosmic experience.

I was keen to explore this historic site and learn more about astronomy, especially since my interests include technology and history.

The Sydney Observatory, perched atop Observatory Hill, offered stunning views of the city. The building itself exudes old-world charm, instantly transporting you to a bygone era. While the city lights made it a bit challenging to see the fainter stars, the experience was still quite magical. I learned about the observatory's history as a signaling station and its role in timekeeping and navigation. It's amazing to think that this place has been illuminating the southern sky for over a century!

The true wonder of Sydney lies not just in its iconic structures, but in the experiences that connect us to its history, culture, and the vast universe beyond.

Next on the agenda was the Sydney Harbour Bridge.


Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Sydney Harbour Bridge, an iconic symbol of Australia's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.

I've always been fascinated by this iconic structure, and today was the day I finally got to experience it up close. I met up with my friends, and together, we decided to walk across the bridge, taking in the breathtaking views of the harbor. The sheer scale of the bridge is awe-inspiring, and walking across it gave me a newfound appreciation for the engineering marvel that it is. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and a gentle breeze, making the experience even more enjoyable. We started our walk near the Australian Heritage Hotel in The Rocks, following the stairs up and passing the south-eastern Pylon Lookout. The panorama from the bridge was simply spectacular.

For lunch, we headed to Machiavelli Ristorante Italiano.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Machiavelli Ristorante Italiano in Sydney - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

A place recommended by a local friend. Hidden away beneath Clarence Street, the restaurant had a charming, old-world feel. The Italian dishes were delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a perfect spot to refuel after our bridge adventure. I really enjoyed the pasta, and the service was impeccable. It reminded me of some of my favorite Italian restaurants back in Montreal.

After lunch, we explored The Rocks Market.


Explore The Rocks Market in Sydney: A vibrant blend of artisan crafts, gourmet food, and local culture in the heart of Australia's oldest neighborhood.

The market was bustling with activity, showcasing the talents of local artisans and designers. I picked up a few unique souvenirs for Élodie and my friends back in Montreal. The Rocks Market was a vibrant mix of art, craft, and culture, offering something for everyone. The atmosphere was lively, with street performers adding to the festive vibe. It was a great way to experience the local culture and support local businesses.

Our final stop for the day was the Sydney Opera House.


Discover the artistic essence of Sydney at the iconic Sydney Opera House, where architecture meets world-class performances in a stunning harbor setting.

I had seen countless photos of this iconic building, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. The architecture is simply stunning, and the location on the harbor is perfect. We took a guided tour of the Opera House, learning about its history, design, and the many performances that have graced its stages. I was particularly impressed by the acoustics of the concert hall. It's no wonder this place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Oncore by Clare Smyth for dinner.


Experience unparalleled fine dining at Oncore by Clare Smyth in Crown Sydney, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.

Located in Barangaroo, this restaurant offered breathtaking views of the city skyline. The Michelin-starred chef Clare Smyth's creations were exquisite, each dish a work of art. The service was impeccable, and the overall experience was unforgettable. The restaurant's setup made the most of its location, with huge windows that showcased the Sydney CBD. The modern culinary brilliance was evident in every dish, and the attention to detail was remarkable.

Reflecting on the day, it struck me how much Sydney seamlessly blends history with modernity. The Sydney Observatory, with its 19th-century architecture, stands in contrast to the contemporary design of the Opera House. The Harbour Bridge, a symbol of engineering prowess, connects the city's past with its present.

The weather in Sydney has been quite pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the low to mid-20s Celsius. The forecast for the next few days looks promising, with sunny skies and mild temperatures. It's the perfect weather for exploring the city's many outdoor attractions.

Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park and a tour of the Blue Mountains. I'm excited to see some of Australia's unique wildlife and explore the natural beauty of the mountains. I've heard great things about the Blue Mountains tour, and I'm looking forward to experiencing the breathtaking views and learning about the region's history and ecology.

It's been an incredible journey so far, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the trip has in store.

À bientôt!

Thomas