Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends
Day 16: Sydney's Grand Finale: A Day of Iconic Views and Culinary Delights
Exploring Sydney's iconic Circular Quay, Domain, and Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, topped with exquisite dining experiences. A perfect farewell!
A Perfect Sydney Send-Off
As our 16-day adventure in Sydney draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this incredible city. Today was all about revisiting some of the most iconic spots and indulging in a final taste of Sydney's amazing culinary scene. With Elodie and the rest of our friends, we set out to make the most of our last day, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish long after we’ve returned to Montreal.
Our day began with a culinary experience at LuMi Dining for breakfast. The Italian-Japanese fusion was an interesting and delightful way to start the day. I never would have thought to combine these two cuisines, but the chef did so expertly. The restaurant itself was beautiful as well, sitting right on the water. It was the perfect way to start our last day in Sydney.
Discover exquisite flavors and stunning views at LuMi Dining in Pyrmont - where culinary artistry meets waterfront elegance.
Next, we headed to Circular Quay. The energy there is always infectious, with street performers, tourists snapping photos, and the constant movement of ferries. It’s a hub of activity that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Sydney. We strolled along the waterfront, taking in the views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge one last time. I made sure to capture a few more photos, trying to freeze those iconic images in my memory.

Discover the vibrant charm of Circular Quay, Sydney's iconic waterfront hub, where stunning views and rich culture converge.
From Circular Quay, we wandered over to The Domain, a sprawling green space that offers a welcome respite from the city bustle. The autumn leaves were scattered across the grass, creating a beautiful scene as we walked through. We found a nice spot to sit and simply enjoy the sunshine and the sounds of the city around us. The Domain is such a versatile space, hosting everything from outdoor concerts to peaceful picnics, and today it was the perfect place for a relaxing interlude.
Explore The Domain Sydney, a vibrant urban park offering stunning gardens, cultural events, and recreational activities in the heart of the city.
The best view comes after the hardest climb.
Our next stop was Mrs Macquarie's Chair, a historic landmark with stunning panoramic views of the harbor. The chair itself, carved out of a rock ledge in 1810 for Governor Macquarie's wife Elizabeth, offers a unique vantage point to admire the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. As I sat there, soaking in the scenery, I couldn't help but reflect on all the incredible experiences we've had during our trip. It's a view that truly captures the essence of Sydney.
Discover the historic Mrs Macquarie's Chair in Sydney, where stunning harbor views and rich Australian history converge in a beautiful garden setting.
For lunch, we had reservations at Strangers' Restaurant in the NSW Parliament building. Dining in a parliament building felt quite special, and the food was excellent. The restaurant overlooks The Domain, providing a lovely view while we ate. It was a unique experience that combined history, culture, and fine dining.
Experience exquisite modern Australian cuisine at Strangers' Restaurant in NSW Parliament House - where tradition meets culinary innovation.
As the afternoon progressed, we decided to treat ourselves to a bit of relaxation before our final dinner. We found our way to Burrow Bar, a hidden gem known for its creative cocktails and cozy atmosphere. The bar was a bit tricky to find, tucked away in a laneway, but it was well worth the effort. The bartenders were true mixologists, crafting unique and delicious drinks. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reminisce about our favorite moments from the trip.
Experience the eclectic vibes and exquisite cocktails at Burrow Bar, Sydney's hidden cocktail sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Finally, for our farewell dinner, we chose Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room. This elegant restaurant offered a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu that was both refined and delicious. We savored each course, enjoying the company of our friends and the flavors of Sydney one last time. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through the city.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room in Sydney - where culinary excellence meets elegant dining.
Looking back on our 16 days in Sydney, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems, from the bustling city streets to the tranquil parks, Sydney has captured my heart in a way I never expected. I’m so glad I got to experience this with Elodie and our friends. As we prepare to head back to Montreal, I know that a piece of Sydney will always remain with me. Until next time, Australia!
It’s hard to believe that our trip is already over. It feels like just yesterday we were landing at the airport, eager to explore everything Sydney had to offer. Now, as I sit here reflecting on our adventures, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We truly made the most of our time here, and I’m already dreaming of our next visit.
Tomorrow, we'll be heading to the airport, filled with memories and stories to share. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place you’ve grown to love, but I know that the experiences we’ve had here will stay with us forever. Sydney, you’ve been amazing!
The last day of our trip was a whirlwind of emotions. We started with a delicious breakfast, followed by a visit to Circular Quay, The Domain, and Mrs Macquarie's Chair. Each location held its own unique charm, and I was grateful for the opportunity to experience them all one last time. The views from Mrs Macquarie's Chair were especially breathtaking, and I spent a few moments simply taking it all in.
Afterward, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Strangers' Restaurant in the NSW Parliament building. The food was fantastic, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. It was a truly memorable dining experience that I won't soon forget. In the afternoon, we relaxed at Burrow Bar, sipping on expertly crafted cocktails and enjoying the company of our friends. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our trip.
Finally, we ended our day with a farewell dinner at Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to Sydney and to celebrate the incredible memories we've made. As we raised our glasses in a final toast, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. But I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced such an amazing city with such wonderful friends.
As I pack my bags and prepare for our journey home, I know that I will carry the memories of this trip with me always. Sydney has captured my heart, and I can't wait to return someday. Until then, I will cherish the moments we've shared and the friendships we've forged. Thank you, Sydney, for an unforgettable adventure!
One of the things that struck me most about Sydney was its incredible diversity. From the bustling city streets to the tranquil parks, from the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems, there was always something new and exciting to discover. I loved exploring the different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. And I was especially impressed by the city's vibrant culinary scene, which offered a delicious array of flavors from around the world.
But more than anything, it was the people of Sydney who made this trip so special. Everyone we met was warm, welcoming, and eager to share their love of the city. Their kindness and hospitality made us feel right at home, and I will always be grateful for their generosity.
As I reflect on our time in Sydney, I am reminded of a quote by the French writer Marcel Proust:
The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.
This trip has certainly opened my eyes to new perspectives and possibilities. It has reminded me of the importance of travel and exploration, and it has inspired me to continue seeking out new adventures in the years to come. So, thank you, Sydney, for an unforgettable journey. I will carry the memories of this trip with me always, and I can't wait to return someday.
And to Elodie and our friends, thank you for sharing this incredible experience with me. Your laughter, your companionship, and your unwavering support made this trip all the more special. I am so grateful to have you in my life, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us in the future. Au revoir, Sydney! À bientôt!
Join Thomas and friends on a 16-day adventure in Sydney, exploring iconic landmarks, culinary delights, and vibrant culture in Australia's heart.
Meet this Featured Explorer
-
Occupation: Software Developer
-
Country: Canada
-
Age: 38
Bonjour, fellow travelers! I'm Thomas, a software developer by day and a passionate explorer by night (and weekends!). Born and raised in France but now calling Montreal home, I've always had a love for discovering new cultures and hidden gems around the world. This blog is where I share my adventures, cultural insights, and travel tips, hoping to inspire you to embark on your own journeys. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your first trip, I'm here to offer a blend of informative, engaging, and personal stories with a touch of French humor.
Find Similar Travel Diaries
Explore locations from this diary
-
YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites
Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience at YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites, perfect for both business travelers and holidaymakers alike.
-
Circular Quay
Discover the vibrant charm of Circular Quay, Sydney's iconic waterfront hub, where stunning views and rich culture converge.
-
The Domain Sydney
Explore The Domain Sydney, a vibrant urban park offering stunning gardens, cultural events, and recreational activities in the heart of the city.
-
Mrs Macquarie's Chair
Discover the historic Mrs Macquarie's Chair in Sydney, where stunning harbor views and rich Australian history converge in a beautiful garden setting.
-
LuMi Dining
Discover exquisite flavors and stunning views at LuMi Dining in Pyrmont - where culinary artistry meets waterfront elegance.
-
Strangers' Restaurant, NSW Parliament Sydney CBD
Experience exquisite modern Australian cuisine at Strangers' Restaurant in NSW Parliament House - where tradition meets culinary innovation.
-
Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room in Sydney - where culinary excellence meets elegant dining.
-
Burrow Bar
Experience the eclectic vibes and exquisite cocktails at Burrow Bar, Sydney's hidden cocktail sanctuary in the heart of the city.