Sydney, the biggest Australian city (although not the capital), with a population of around 5 million, is a true bustling metropolis. With so many tourist attractions, different cultural influences, natural beauties and culinary delights, choosing what to see and do can be a difficult task. Here are some of our favorite Sydney experiences to take into consideration if you’re planning your week in this beautiful city.

Check out the cultural life

The cultural life of the city is vibrant, eclectic and pretty impressive. Modern art lovers should take the time to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (its restaurant has one of the best views in the city, so grab a cup of coffee there, at least). If you’re keen to find out more about the intriguing history of the city and its fascinating past, head over to the Museum of Sydney as well as The Rocks Discovery Museum. If you can get your hands on a ticket, why not watch a show at the most iconic opera house in the world? If you’re out of luck though, don’t worry – there is always a plethora of theater shows, concerts and galleries to choose from on the city’s thriving cultural scene.

Explore the city

There are many ways to explore a new city, and usually a mix of planned and spontaneous is the best. Map out which attractions you would like to see beforehand. Some of the most famous attractions that you definitely shouldn’t miss include the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the beautiful Darling Harbour and Circular Quay areas. To explore the sights and get a general impression of the city, it’s best to opt for one of the many tours, or look into the possibility of comfortable coach hire in Sydney. The Rocks, a bohemian tourist area full of pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops is a place best explored on foot. Don’t forget to take the time to roam the city too. Sometimes you can come across some true gems, and you can’t really say you’ve seen a city if you don’t get at least a little bit lost in it.

Take a cruise

One of the defining features of Sydney are the waves of the ocean lapping at its coast. That is why taking a cruise around the Harbour and the nearby islands, like the artsy, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island, is a perspective you shouldn’t miss. If you’d rather make your own itinerary, get a 24-hour pass and take advantage of the Eco Hopper. The stops include plenty of awesome attractions, like the Taronga Zoo and Circular Quay.

Hit the beach

Can you really say you’ve been to Sydney if you haven’t taken a dip in the ocean or surfed some of the most impressive waves in the world? The Sydney area has dozens of beaches, some of them worldwide famous. Surely, a visit to the city means seeing the legendary Bondi Beach. You can use your time to swim, play beach and water sports, or visit one of the many beachfront restaurants. Visitors who find themselves there in October or November have the opportunity to witness the impressive annual outdoor sculpture exhibition called Sculpture by the Sea. Some of the other notable beaches include Manly, Freshwater, Shelly, and Tamarama, to name just a few.

Sydney is a city that could keep you entertained and impressed for much longer than a week. However, with a bit of planning and forethought, you can get the most out of your stay. One thing is certain: whatever you choose to do, you are sure to enjoy yourself.