Things to do in The Rocks with Sydney Harbour YHA
The Rocks is home to an entire array of accommodation from 5* hotels, boutique guesthouses and affordable accommodation. One of our favourite best value stays has to be YHA in The Rocks. It’s built above archaeological remnants of colonial Sydney and combines state-of-the-art facilities with a heritage experience. It's the only backpacker hostel in the city's historic harbourside precinct so we asked Gemma Linton, Deputy Manager for her lowdown on the top things to do in Sydney on a budget.
What is your take on the must-do experience in Sydney?
For an alternative coastal adventure in Sydney I would recommend the Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay walk. Just catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo and take a right as you disembark. This walk takes you past a stunning amphitheatre looking back at the city (a favourite hidden spot with local wedding photographers) and military relics like cannons and fortification remains. It is mostly a well kept path and should take around two or three hours. The walk ends at a beach if you are game enough to brave the chill for a dip!
What is something you recommend to visitors that they can’t miss out at Sydney Harbour YHA?
Our terrace of course! We have a beautiful spacious rooftop terrace that looks over the iconic harbour. It takes in everything from the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and cityscape views.If there are two ‘must do activities’ whilst staying with us they would be:
- Borrowing a yoga mat from our reception to do some stretches on the terrace as the sun rises
- Sourcing some delicious food from local providers in The Rocks and raising a glass to the whole of Sydney as the sun goes down.
What is your favourite thing about The Rocks and why should people visit when in Sydney
The history in this area is incredible! Every twist and turn of the streets shows off another facet of the many lives that were lived here. People are always surprised to find that there is a whole archaeology site underneath the hostel and love that we have information and artefacts scattered around for the public and guests to learn from.