DISCOVER THE STORY OF SYDNEY

Sydney is a unique, complex and vibrant city. Its rich history is all around you but often hiding in plain sight. On this expert-led walking tour, you’ll weave throughout time and space to uncover the stories and secrets of Sydney’s city-scape: from its hidden spaces to its main attractions.

Public tours: $65 per person including a craft beer.

Private tours: from $420 (2-5 people), larger groups on request.

ABOUT THIS TOUR:

Starting from Customs House at Circular Quay, we’ll gain a unique overview of Sydney’s city-scape using a complete scale model and discuss its incredible evolution from ancient times to the contemporary metropolis. This will include a discussion on the 18th century arrival of convicts and colonists who began to reshape the Gadigal lands and waterways of Warrane into a simple maritime village centred around Sydney Cove.

Heading towards the Botanical Gardens and a visit to the State Library’s private art collection, we’ll encounter the grand sandstone facades and castle-like constructions left over from Sydney’s the High Victorian Age; as well of those that the city has lost and forgotten.

Entering the City Proper, expect an eclectic mix of old and new architecture reflecting the ever evolving style of Sydney — from Art Deco banks adorned with marble; to buzzing 19th century arcades and glistening glass skyscrapers. 

Completing our journey back towards The Rocks, we’ll venture down urban alleyways encountering secret bars, restaurants, street art and sculptures. 

We’ll finish at a popular brewery with harbour views of both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. 

PUBLIC TOUR DETAILS

Perfect for: Solo travellers, couples, small groups and families with teenage children. You’ll be in a fun and friendly group consisting of locals and travellers.

Group size: 4 – 12 people (for private tours we can take more – contact us for details).

Age range: This tour is not recommended for children under 12 years of age as it involves 3 hours of stories about Sydney’s history and around 4km of walking, which can often be little much for our younger guests. Please contact us if you need more information.

Start location: Customs House, 31 Alfred St, Sydney. We meet in front of Customs House, right beside the steps and access ramp.

End location: International Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay. We finish a 10 minute walk from where we started.

Important note: You’ll cover around 4km on this tour over 3.5 hours. We walk at a leisurely pace, but comfortable shoes and a water bottle are a must.

Cultural note: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are advised that this tour may include the names and images of people who are now deceased.

UNIQUE TO THIS TOUR:

SMALL AND INTERACTIVE:  With a maximum of 12 guests, you’ll be able to walk the streets in a small team of travellers to easily connect and engage with your guide and group.

COVERS KEY SYDNEY HIGHLIGHTS ALONG THE WAY:  On this walk you’ll visit, see and learn about:

• Circular Quay
• Sydney Opera House
• The Harbour Bridge
• The Rocks
• The Garden Palace
• Hyde Park Barracks
• The NSW State Library
• St Mary’s Cathedral
• The “Rum Hospital”
• Hyde Park
• Martin Place
• The Strand Arcade
• Queen Victoria Building
• General Post Office (GPO)
• ANZAC Cenotaph
• The Tank Stream
• & much more!

INCLUSIONS:

• 3 – 3.5 hour professionally guided tour by a Sydney Historian
• A craft beer (or soft drink) at the end of the tour
• Recommendations on hidden cafes, restaurants and bars