Darling Harbour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
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New South Wales
Sydney
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Darling Harbour
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Darling Harbour

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Darling Harbour
4.5
About
Scenic entertainment complex that features shops, restaurants, museums and other tourist attractions.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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The area
How to get there
  • Town Hall • 8 min walk
  • Wynyard • 9 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
5,519 within 3 miles
Primi Italian
177
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Vegetarian Friendly
Caffe Amici
285
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Cafe
The Ternary
934
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Grill • Australian
Fortune Village Chinese Restaurant
877
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Chinese • Asian • Cantonese
Medusa Greek Taverna
1,360
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Mediterranean • Greek • Vegetarian Friendly
The Baxter Inn
901
0.3 mi$$ - $$$
Atelier by Sofitel
767
0.2 mi$$$$ • French • European • Grill
Little Snail
1,030
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • French • European • Vegetarian Friendly
The Malaya
1,311
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Malaysian • Vegetarian Friendly
Betty's Burgers
977
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food
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Attractions
791 within 6 miles
Madame Tussauds Sydney
1,821
0.1 miSpeciality Museums
Bradleys Head Trail
69
0.1 miNational Parks • Hiking Trails
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
2,000
0.1 miZoos
Welcome Wall
19
419 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Sea Life Sydney
46
508 ftAquariums
Dancing Brolgas Fountain
1
458 ftFountains
Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
5,064
0.1 miAquariums
Cockle Bay Wharf
250
0.1 miNeighborhoods • Piers & Boardwalks
Australian National Maritime Museum
2,086
0.2 miSpeciality Museums
James Craig Tall Ship
276
0.3 miShips
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See what travelers are saying
  • Estes
    Sydney, Australia8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Romantic evening stroll
    This picturesque waterfront destination is filled with entertaining activities and historical sites that will make your visit to Sydney an unforgettable one. From the National Maritime Museum to the Chinese Garden of Friendship, there is something for everyone. Plus, the diverse range of restaurants, bars and shops will ensure that you never run out of things to do.
    Visited May 2023
    Written May 11, 2023
  • Fallert
    Sydney, Australia7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Perfect Place to Get Entertained and Take Great Photos
    Darling Harbour Australia is the perfect spot for those looking for a bustling, entertaining, and photogenic experience. This modern destination is a must-visit in Sydney. With plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions, you're sure to find something to keep you busy. From the Sydney Aquarium and Wildlife World to the Powerhouse Museum and Chinese Garden of Friendship, there's something for everyone. And don't forget the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, both of which can be seen from Darling Harbour. All of this makes it a great spot to take some amazing photos. So, if you're looking for a fun-filled day of entertainment and photography, Darling Harbour Australia is the place to be!
    Visited May 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written May 17, 2023
  • Questovia
    Wells, Maine1,139 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    So Much to Experience
    What a wonderful harborside in beautiful downtown Sydney. Restaurants galore, as well as numerous types of entertainment, including a marina, and of course, always the beautiful water and lovely boardwalks and wharfs everywhere. We felt very safe at all times and enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
    Visited February 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written May 20, 2023
  • Tiffanie
    Sydney, Australia6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The entertaining, exciting and modern waterfront destination!
    Darling Harbour is the perfect place for a fun and exciting day out. With its modern attractions, waterfront views and endless entertainment, it's no wonder why this destination is so popular. Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll, a family outing or a night out with friends, Darling Harbour has something for everyone. Go on, give it a go - you won't regret it!
    Visited July 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written July 10, 2023
  • Travelove58
    15,313 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Good for casual stroll & to take in the sights of the marina & city.
    Waterfront area in the heart of the city. Take a slow casual walk along the very long bridge, with 360° views of the surrounding marina & city landscapes. Good place for jogging or just a relaxed stroll. There are some attractions below the bridge, plus Cockle Bay Wharf - a stretch of food & entertainment area.
    Visited August 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written September 3, 2023
  • Mallo_Pahanen
    Helsinki, Finland814 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice area to go around
    An area with nice conditions and looks. The streets are clean and the water is nearby. Here you can find the passage of time in the form of museums and places of entertainment. There are many places to eat, they are overpriced and not particularly good. The harbor area is long and especially good for moving and walking.
    Visited March 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written October 28, 2023
  • Gregg S
    London, United Kingdom13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An iconic historical waterfront destination in australia
    It is bustling with activity and offers a diverse range of attractions, from museums and galleries to restaurants and shopping. Enjoy the view of the harbour from the promenade, and explore the nearby Chinatown and Powerhouse Museum. There's something for everyone, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the sights.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written December 20, 2023
  • Liza Rene
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An absolute delight to explore!
    The vibrant atmosphere, waterfront views, and buzzing energy made it an instant favorite. Strolling along the harbor, I was spoiled for choice with an array of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium was a highlight, bringing the ocean to life with mesmerizing exhibits. The laid-back vibes, coupled with street performances, created a perfect setting for a leisurely day. Whether you're a foodie, nature enthusiast, or just in the mood for a scenic escape, Darling Harbour nails it – a must-visit gem in the heart of Sydney!
    Visited May 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written January 23, 2024
  • smiler1956
    Birmingham, United Kingdom530 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Visit
    I visited this beautiful harbour with my wife and Daughter. Not only is it a lovely setting but lined with shops and restaurants. The iconic swing bridge gives tall ships access to the harbour, and the National Maritime Museum has some great examples of shipping through the ages. Perfect for people watching, relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written February 6, 2024
  • EndlessTravels
    Greater Melbourne, Australia38,283 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A Sydney must see
    If you have kids you will end up visiting darling Harbour a lot. Excellent aquarium and the kids highlight of the zoo. We parents loved the views and Madame Tussaud’s. The harbor is great for walking but even better when on a ferry
    Visited February 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 5, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions
4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles11,402 reviews
Excellent
6,780
Very good
3,570
Average
817
Poor
179
Terrible
56
jenny j
Canberra, Australia26 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Great walkable location for restaurants
Feb 2020
Stayed at the Adina Apartments in King St (entrance on Shelley St) - cross the road and you are right in Darling Harbour where there is easy and flat walking. There is a huge choice of restaurants/bars. Many are a bit on the expensive side but some offer very reasonable prices. For a really fabulous seafood meal try Nick's Seafood Restaurant at the Cockle Bay Wharf end of Darling Harbour - best seafood we have had in a long time; they really know how to cook calamari. It is easy to walk to Barangaroo from Darling Harbour, or to walk into the city over the walkway at the end of Shelley/King Sts (there is a lift as well as stairs). You can catch the ferry from Darling Harbour at Wharf 1 or 2 to Circular Quay, Balmain, even to Parramatta.
Written February 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darlene J
14 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
A reasonable area to visit.
Jan 2020
If it wasn't for the access of a couple of things we wanted to see here I don't think I would bother coming back here. Whilst we came in Summer, Sydney put on a drizzly day. - if you didn't have a rain coat (too hot for one) or umbrella there was no major area to take dry cover. Crossing over the bridge we found a shopping centre which did keep us dry but shopping wasn't in the game plan. When the drizzle stopped we did enjoy visiting the Maritime museum and spent a good couple hours here. Madam Tasseuds, Sea Life & Wild Life Sydney Zoo are there to visit as well. Gondolas, Cruises and other boat activities are docked in the wharf. Food areas are more to one side of the bridge. The dock side is more travel kiosks. Just depends on what you are wanting to do there depends on your thoughts though. I found Sydney Harbour more fun
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pdhgirl
Sydney, Australia130 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Lovely views!
Jan 2020
We come into the city quite often and this is our 4th time coming into Darling Harbour to celebrate Australia Day. No problem finding seating in the morning but was a very hot day so more shade could have been installed. We stayed mostly at the Watershed Hotel/Pub which was opposite the stage for live music on the day. What a shame it played mostly latino music for Australia Day!....while we enjoy a lot of different music this was not really enjoyable and there was no Aussie band playing at all! Even the DJ who came on later played all random nightclub stuff which no one enjoyed as there were lot's of complaining where we were. A small amount of water ski displays were shown with no fireworks (as previous years)...well not near the harbourside area anyway. We usually enjoy the ambience of Australia Day in Darling Harbour but this year was a fail. Probably not going to return to this area again anytime soon.
Written January 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shane T
Sydney, Australia841 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Family queen’s birthday adventure
May 2021 • Friends
Took the kids on what we called an adventure. Caught the bus and train to darling harbour. Would of preferred to drive as it would if knocked 2 hours of our return trip but public transported it for the kids.
Plenty to do as we first let the kids play on the playground which is packed but ample size to play comfortably. If it was summer they could play in the water features but too cold yet some kids were in the water still. There was a festival for kids which included a ice rink but queues were to great to bother so we went to the maritime museum to go on the ships. These were great fun for the kids unfortunately the submarine was already booked out so maybe next time.
Lots to do but time got away from us. Advice if you want to eat in a restaurant there book ahead as we had to eat in the food hall as all restaurants were booked out with waiting times 1 hour +
Written June 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kerry Werchon
Adelaide, Australia96 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Visit to Darling Harbour
Jan 2020
My 12 year old grandson, Anton and I took a train in from Mascot Tain station to Sydney city. The train ride was smooth and efficient being double story. There were lots of people and the train stations can be like rabbit warrens but so long as you have your phone charged, you could find your way around, and attendants were happy to help with the navigation. From Sydney Central train station we navigated our way through the Queen Victoria Building and viewed the Sydney Eye Tower. We then asked for directions from a street side fruit seller and we took the short walk to Darling Harbour. There were people climbing one of the buildings which was briefly entertaining to watch. We then made our way over the bridge to the Australian Maritime Museum. It was a beautiful sunny day and people were walking around enjoying the environment. I had been to Darling Harbour a few times before, the last in 2012 with my daughter, Yaz, when we stayed at the lovely Novotel Hotel. We visited lively restaurants with great service while we were there and also Madam Tassaulds museum. The late night visit to play a game of ten pin bowling with champagne on ice was a real treat! Before that, we visited in 2002 when going to the nearby Chinese gardens which was lovely and had huge goldfish.
Written July 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SimonTaylor13
Griffith, Australia25 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Great location, plenty of attractions, easy to get to
Jan 2020 • Family
Spent about 2 days of our 5 day trip here.

It’s very busy however is great for families, the shopping centre has a good variety of food to fill the family up.

There was a neat little bungy jump type ride in the food caught, my 9 year old loved it, pity it wasn’t there on Tuesday when the kids wanted more!

The maritime museum eats a fair amount of time, as do the other attractions on the other side.

Watching Pyrmont bridge spin around was great too.
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kdr07
Sydney, Australia72 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
plenty to do in a everchanging environment
Jan 2020
loads of restaurants. The eateries vary in price so whatever is your budget you can find a nice place to eat at any time of the day. Darling Harbour accomodates for the young and the old and it can get pretty full on the weekend with loads of people walking along its promenade. There are clubs and bars and kids fun there is fun for everyone. Tourist attractions and also souvenirs to buy. Its a great place to be the vibe is magical.
There are plenty of hotels to stay at at a good price and your location to the Casino is just perfect a block away so entertainment is definately at your fingertips in this location.
Written January 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Loveagreathotel
Hobart, Tasmania490 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Great Location. A lot of restaurants not open or on limited times
Apr 2021
Staying in Darling Harbour is great if attending the Convention Centre. Lots of hotels to select from. Restaurants are starting to go back to normal but be aware lots of either not opened or have restricted hours or days. The Harbourside Shopping Centre is very quiet and several stores not opened or closed. All part of the effects of Covid.
There is a light rail that goes to Central Station however does not go into the City Centre however it is a $10 Taxi Fare to the Centre of town.
Written April 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Edgewood48
Llangollen, UK337 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stunning
Mar 2020 • Couples
What a fantastic place this is. Waterside restaurants and bars. The Maritine Museum is worth spending a couple of hours with the destroyer and the submarine. Dont miss the wall showing details of immigrants and some quotations. Madam Tussauds and the Aquarium, we felt were far too expensive.
There is so much to do and see in this area with access from the L1 Tram, ferry boats from Circular Quay and walking from near China Town. A lively interesting place during the day and lovely restaurants at night.
Written March 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MonanMatt
Adelaide, Australia144 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Convenient area to stay in
Jun 2019
We stayed in an apartment just of Murray St, it accommodated 5 Adults easily The local shopping centre Harbourside has most things you need and there is a Coles Supermarket around the corner across the road from the Star Casino. All of this is within a 10 minute walk. You can get on the Light Rail (Tram) to go into the city, take the ferry around to Circular Quay under the Harbour Bridge or walk (approx 20 min walk to Pitt St) central shopping district being mindful that there are quite a lot of hills.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Darling Harbour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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