Car Rental Sydney Airport

Touch down at Sydney Airport and embark on a city full of culture and adventure. This guide will take you from the vibrancy of the city centre, the unpredictability of the inner city, along the coast and back with an unforgettable experience to take home. 

You’ve just landed at Sydney Airport. The first question is, what’s on the agenda? Sydney is truly a world class city when it comes to its beaches, restaurants and attractions. And, in a Thrifty rental car, you can hop from one to another with ease. Let’s go see Sydney and beyond! 

Staying Central 

Sydney’s Central Business District (or CBD) really is the centre of it all. Nestled in the towering skyscrapers are a buzzing bunch of cafes, bars and restaurants, boutique and big ticket shops, plus some of the country’s most iconic buildings. Wander through Strand Arcade, the beautiful Victorian-style shopping centre that dates back to 1890. At Haymarket, Sydney’s Chinatown, jam-packed with restaurants from all throughout Asia, from bustling institutions to holes in the wall. Right next to the city is Surry Hills, an ex-industrial area that’s now home to some of Sydney’s best restaurants, bars, cafes and galleries. To continue through Sydney’s history, head to The Rocks, one of Sydney’s oldest areas, home to cobblestone streets, heritage pubs, and weekly markets. For an unbeatable view of Sydney’s signature landmark, the Sydney Opera House, head straight to Circular Quay.  

Cruising to the Coast 

While you’re visiting Circular Quay take a ferry to Manly, a dreamy seaside suburb with a lively energy. Here, take a stroll down the pedestrian-only street, The Corso and grab a gelato on your way to the water. Then, take the Manly to Shelly Beach walk, which will take an easy 20 minutes. 

No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to Bondi Beach, just a 25-minute drive from the airport. Famous for good reason, this vibrant area offers a huge beach and vibrant surrounding streets. While you’re here, take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, a 6km trail that hugs the coastline, passing stunning beaches, ocean pools and lookout points along the way. Stop at Bronte Beach for a coffee or Tamarama Beach for some epic waves. 

For something secluded, head to Shark Beach, a small strip of sand hidden within the gorgeous Nielson Park. It’s a perfect place for a dip, a picnic and a relaxed day by the bay (without a shark in sight!) 

Attractions All Around 

It’s not all beaches, shops and restaurants here in Sydney. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities.At SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, you can wander through an underwater tunnel and see sharks, dugongs, and tropical fish swim around you. Meanwhile, on land at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, you can get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and even a saltwater crocodile. At Madame Tussauds Sydney, take a selfie with a scarily-realistic wax sculpture of your favourite celebrities. Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales for their immersive collection of artworks from both Australia and around the world. 

Get a Taste of Sydney 

Sydney’s dining scene is as diverse as its people. Whether you’re after street food or fine dining, this city has it all. Mr Wong is a powerhouse of Chinese food, serving everything from comforting dumplings to lavish live seafood in a modern yet approachable dining room. At Ester, a woodfire oven takes centre stage, producing share-plates with world-class creativity. Meanwhile, AP House serves up brunch classics and pastries in a lively rooftop setting. To really take things up a notch, Quay restaurant not only serves a refined tasting menu that has earned its place in World’s 50 Best Restaurant awards—it also comes with an opera house view that’s hard to beat. 

Sydney With a View 

Sydney is a hilly city, meaning you’re always close to a stunning view of the city, the Opera House and the ocean. Head to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for one the best spots to snap a sunset shot of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Over at Dudley Page Reserve, you’ll get unbeatable panoramic views of the Sydney skyline. Just a 30-minute drive from the city, North Head Lookout offers spectacular ocean views and hiking trails. 

Beyond Sydney 

Sydney has plenty of action to keep you on your toes all day and night, but sometimes you find yourself curious about what else is out there. Here are some destinations out of town that’ll turn your Sydney trip into something next-level. 

Blue Mountains National Park (1.5-hour drive) 

For something scenic, take a day trip to the Blue Mountains. Explore the Three Sisters, hike through lush rainforests and ride the Scenic Skyway for breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley. 

Hunter Valley Wine Region (2-hour drive) 

Wine lovers will be in their element in Hunter Valley. This wine region is the oldest in Australia, and is dotted with cellar doors, picturesque restaurants, and rolling vineyards. Just remember to have a designated driver if you plan on sampling the local drops! 

Royal National Park (1-hour drive) 

For hiking, waterfalls and secluded beaches all in one, Royal National Park should be high on your list. While you’re here, visit the Figure Eight Pools for natural rock pools, Wedding Cake Rock for a unique white rock formation with coastal views, and hit the secluded surf of Garie Beach. 

Explore Sydney and Beyond with Thrifty 

Sydney is one thrilling city. In one visit, you can immerse yourself in the energy of the city, the waves of the ocean and the cuisine of the world. And, in a Thrifty rental car, everything that makes Sydney one of the most sought-after places to visit and live can be yours with the click of an ‘unlock’ button. Check out our Thrifty fleet and book your rental car today!