Named after a former governor of New South Wales, the Darling Harbour precinct features a wealth of things to do. There are public gardens and promenades, restaurants, bars and hotels, and major attractions such as the Australian National Maritime Museum, the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney Zoo. Start your visit by chatting with the friendly guides at the Visitor Centre. They’ll help you to plan your day, purchase tickets and book activities. To learn more about Australia’s connection with the sea, visit the National Maritime Museum. Here, you’ll vividly experience the journeys undertaken by the nation’s early explorers, settlers and immigrants. Climb aboard and explore the many historic vessels moored out front, including a decommissioned naval submarine. Say “G’day” to some of Australia’s deadliest and cuddliest creatures at Wild Life Sydney Zoo. Home to more than 6,000 native animals, this nature park offers visitors a chance to pet koalas and wander through a tropical butterfly house. For a truly “Aussie” experience, hang out with the kangaroos in the Kangaroo Walk-About zone. Don’t miss the peaceful Chinese Garden of Friendship. One of the only Chinese gardens outside Asia, the grounds were created by the local Chinese community to celebrate Australia’s 1988 bicentenary. Beautiful water features and traditional pavilions make the garden a peaceful place to relax and revive after sight-seeing. In the evening, catch a musical production at the Sydney Lyric Theatre inside Star City Casino or book a romantic harbor cruise. Grab a table at one of the many waterfront restaurants. For something fun and informal, pick up fish and chips from one of the take-away eateries and find a spot overlooking Cockle Bay. Darling Harbour hosts free music, annual events and film festivals. (Check the calendar on the Darling Harbour website for a schedule.) Darling Harbour is located adjacent to downtown and is accessible by train, bus, monorail or foot from the city center. There are paid parking lots throughout the precinct.
Darling Harbour
Popular places to visit
Star Casino
Why not roll the dice by visiting Star Casino where you can enjoy the entertainment at this popular casino in Sydney? Amble around this vibrant area's waterfront or experience its entertainment choices.
Wild Life Sydney Zoo
Encounter Australia’s diverse habitats at this interactive zoo and come face to face with the country's most loved, feared and iconic animals.
Australian National Maritime Museum
Exhilarating oceanic adventures, replica ships and interactive displays and activities, make this a great place to discover Australia’s history on the seas.
Cockle Bay Wharf
Explore the waterfront in Sydney with a trip to Cockle Bay Wharf. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or experience the fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Madame Tussauds Sydney
Sing next to Kylie Minogue, stand next to Ned Kelly, admire world leaders or strike a pose with the star you adore the most in this world-renowned wax museum.
Harbourside
During your trip to Sydney, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Harbourside. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or experience the fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Things to do
Sydney Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour
Sydney: Sydney Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
Blue Mountains Small Group Tour
Sydney Harbour Gold Dinner Cruise
The Ultimate Sydney Pass - Unlimited
Sydney: Guided Walking Tour with Aussie Snacks and Drinks
Top hotels in Darling Harbour
Reviewed on 3 May 2024
Reviewed on 3 May 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 4 May 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Darling Harbour
Sydney Central Business District
Known for its captivating waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Sydney Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Circular Quay and Sydney Opera House, and jump on the metro at Martin Place Station or St. James Station to see more of the city.
Haymarket
Known for its captivating waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Haymarket. Check out top attractions like Market City and Paddy's Market, and jump on the metro at Paddy's Markets Light Rail Station or Capitol Square Light Rail Station to see more of the city.
The Rocks
A noteworthy feature of The Rocks is its captivating waterfront views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Circular Quay and Museum of Contemporary Art.
Surry Hills
Travellers come to Surry Hills for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Crown Street and Belvoir Street Theatre while you're in town.
Darlinghurst
Darlinghurst is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to William Street and Crown Street while you're in town.
Potts Point
The abundant dining options and colourful gardens are just a few top-rate features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by William Street or Port Jackson Bay while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Kings Cross Station to get around town.
- Places of interest
- Darling Harbour Star Rating Hotels
- Darling Harbour Theme Hotels
- Nearby Sydney Neighborhood Hotels
- Darling Harbour Hotel Brands
- More trip options