Sydney, Australia’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, offers an exciting and diverse nightlife scene. From chic rooftop bars and world-class restaurants to lively nightclubs and hidden speakeasies, Sydney has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or a dance floor devotee, this guide will help you discover the best places to go out in Sydney.
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Best neighborhoods for nightlife
The CBD (Central Business District) and Darling Harbour
These two areas are the very heart of the city and attract a young and quite ‘classy’ demographic. Particularly popular for after-work parties, you’ll meet many locals who come to have a drink with colleagues or friends to relax after their working day. The Darling Harbour area is very pleasant with its many bars lining the quayside, with frequent firework displays on weekends.
The Rocks
The Rocks is one of Sydney’s oldest neighborhoods, combining historic charm with a contemporary nightlife scene. With its cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks offers a unique backdrop for an unforgettable night out.
Darlinghurst & Newtown
Darlinghurst is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, offering a mix of trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants. The neighborhood’s eclectic vibe and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Newtown is known for its bohemian and alternative scene. This lively suburb is packed with funky bars, live music venues, and an array of multicultural eateries. It’s a great place to experience Sydney’s diverse and creative culture.
Surry Hills
Surry Hills is a haven for foodies and craft beer lovers. This trendy neighborhood boasts a plethora of hipster cafes, gourmet restaurants, and quirky bars. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed evening out with friends.
Kings Cross
Once infamous for its red-light district, Kings Cross has undergone a transformation and is now a hub for trendy bars and nightclubs. The area’s edgy vibe and late-night entertainment options attract a diverse crowd.
Best Restaurants in Sydney
Quay
Address: Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks
Located in The Rocks, Quay offers a fine dining experience with breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The restaurant’s innovative menu and exquisite presentation make it a must-visit for gourmet enthusiasts.
Chin Chin
Address: 69 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills
Situated in Surry Hills, Chin Chin is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable Southeast Asian cuisine. The restaurant’s lively setting and flavorful dishes make it a popular choice for a night out.
Mr. Wong
Address: 3 Bridge Lane, Sydney
Mr. Wong, located in the heart of the city, is a stylish Cantonese restaurant offering a contemporary take on traditional dishes. The dim sum and roast duck are particularly popular, and the chic ambiance adds to the dining experience.
Tetsuya’s
Address: 529 Kent Street, Sydney
Tetsuya’s is an iconic Sydney restaurant that combines Japanese techniques with French culinary traditions. The degustation menu is a culinary journey, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients.
Ester
Address: 46-52 Meagher Street, Chippendale
Nestled in Chippendale, Ester is a trendy restaurant known for its wood-fired dishes and minimalist decor. The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, and the creative dishes are sure to impress.
Best Bars in Sydney
Bar 83 (Great view of Sydney Harbour)
Enter via the 4th floor of Westfield Sydney, 108 Market Street
Take a step up to the top of the Sydney Eye tower for a 360° view. Go through the Westfield shopping centre to the top floor. This bar has a rather chic atmosphere… and the prices to match. Go there for a special occasion or just to enjoy a drink at sunset. The view of Sydney Harbour is stunning!
Opera Bar (for a view of the Opera House)
Sydney Opera House, Macquarie St, Sydney
This is a must if you are visiting Sydney! This bar is located at the foot of the Sydney Opera House and offers a great view of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The place serves as a bar and restaurant and its outdoor terrace offers the best seats to contemplate the view. It’s a popular spot for tourists so make sure you get there early to get a good seat on the terrace in the evening. To top it all off, the bar often hosts live music outside for a great atmosphere.
The Glenmore Hotel (for a view of the city)
96 Cumberland St, The Rocks
Situated in The Rocks, The Glenmore boasts a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Sydney skyline. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the harbour. The terrace is quite small and fills up quickly, so try to get there a little early.
The Ivy Pool Club
Level 4, 330 George Street, Sydney
The Ivy Pool Club is a glamorous rooftop bar and pool venue in the heart of the city. The chic setting, complete with cabanas and palm trees, makes it a popular spot for sophisticated cocktails and poolside lounging.
Scary Canary (to start your night)
469 Kent St, Sydney
Located next door to Nomads hostel, this is a popular spot for backpackers and students and is a dance bar that combines cheap drinks with regular theme nights. The nightclub gets busy every Tuesday for “Silent Disco” nights or “Wet Wednesdays” on Wednesdays with $6 drinks until midnight. Open all week (except Sunday night) with different themes every night, it’s a great place if you want to party during the week.
SASH – Greenwood Hotel (for Sundays …)
36 Blue St, North Sydney
If you like techno music, S.A.S.H is the place for you! A little off the beaten track in North Sydney, this bar is particularly well known amongst backpackers for its “S.A.S.H by day” events. These events take place every Sunday, with a more chill and deep house version “by day” from 2pm to 10pm and a more ambient version “by night” from 10pm to 4am. It’s a must to discover the Sydney nightlife and meet foreigners.
Baxter Inn
Basement, 152-156 Clarence Street, Sydney
Baxter Inn, a hidden gem in the CBD, is a speakeasy-style bar known for its extensive whisky selection and cozy ambiance. The knowledgeable bartenders and old-world charm create a unique drinking experience.
Best nightclubs in Sydney
Marquee
The Star, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont
Located in The Star casino, Marquee is one of Sydney’s premier nightclubs. The venue attracts top international DJs and offers a luxurious clubbing experience with its stylish decor and state-of-the-art sound system.
Chinese Laundry
111 Sussex Street, Sydney
Chinese Laundry is an iconic underground nightclub in the CBD, known for its eclectic music selection and vibrant atmosphere. The club features three distinct areas, each offering different genres of music, from house and techno to hip-hop and bass.
Ivy Precinct
330 George St, Sydney
If there’s one place to go to get your groove on in Sydney, it’s the Ivy! Aussies, backpackers and all the celebrities who pass through gather here so the place obviously lives up to its reputation. Located in the centre of the CBD and half open air, the Ivy is composed of two rooms with different musical styles. To get the most out of the atmosphere, come on a Thursday night for ‘Ivy Thursdays’.
On Sunday afternoons, from 1pm to 9pm, head up to the Ivy’s rooftop pool for ‘Ivy Pool Club Sundays’. Sip a cocktail while floating on an inflatable buoy – not bad way to chill out on a Sunday afternoon!
Home the venue
101/1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour
Situated on Darling Harbour, Home The Venue is one of Australia’s largest nightclubs. The multi-level club hosts a variety of music events and boasts impressive views of the harbour from its rooftop terrace.
The Argyle
18 Argyle St, The Rocks
The Argyle in The Rocks is a versatile venue that transforms from a bar and restaurant during the day to a lively nightclub at night. With its historic sandstone architecture and spacious courtyard, it offers a unique setting for a night out.
The Establishment
Ground Floor/252 George St, Sydney
Still in the heart of the city, The Establishment offers the same kind of salsa night as Argyle, but on Tuesday nights (free entry)! However, from 00:30 onwards, we switch to a reggaeton night. The place is quite classy with a big bar in the middle and a small courtyard.
Cargo Bar (Fridays and Saturdays)
52-60 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney
Located on the Darling Harbour waterfront, every Friday and Saturday from 10pm this bar transforms into a nightclub until 3am. The main floor plays commercial music and EDM, while the second floor plays hip hop and R&B. We like the fact that the dancefloor is open to the outside with a beautiful view of Darling Harbour. Entry is free on Friday night and 20$ on Saturday.
Burdekin Hotel
2 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Another place for electro music lovers! Located in the Oxford Street area, the club is actually an old 4-storey building. It is known for its Friday night House and Techno “We Love” nights. The Burdekin Saturdays (pop, house, dance) are also famous. Book your place online to get free access before midnight.
Useful Information
- Dress Code: Many of Sydney’s upscale bars and nightclubs enforce a dress code. However, it is rarely compulsory to be “well dressed” to enter a club (except for some of the more formal clubs). It’s advisable to check the venue’s website or call ahead to ensure you meet their requirements.
- Identity Checks: Always carry an identity document with you (passport, driving licence, identity card). You will have to show it everywhere, even in bars, to prove that you are of age, and also on the door to gain entry.
- Transport: Sydney’s public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries, is reliable and convenient for getting around. Late-night options like NightRide buses and rideshare services such as Uber are also available.
- Safety: Sydney is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Stick to well-lit areas and travel with friends when possible.
- Licensing Laws: Be aware of Sydney’s lockout laws, which restrict entry to bars and clubs after 1:30 am in certain areas. These laws are subject to change, so it’s best to stay updated on the latest regulations.
