Rugby travel news: Seven of the best things to see during a visit to Sydney as the Lions take on the NSW Waratahs
The British & Irish Lions face the NSW Waratahs at Allianz Stadium on July 5, in what promises to be one of the liveliest stops on the 2025 tour.
Here, Travel News Blitz’s Sam Condy highlights seven top things to do during a Lions trip to the Harbour City.
Allianz Stadium
The main event takes place in this mammoth multi-purpose stadium, but if you’re in town early, stadium tours are sometimes available midweek.
You can visit the dressing rooms, walk through the players' tunnel, and explore the facilities of one of Australia’s most modern sporting venues.
It’s an incredible venue, and a tour before kick-off will only heighten your appreciation.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Arguably Sydney’s most famous structure, the Harbour Bridge is an iconic postcard attraction that offers an experience unlike any other.
The Harbour Bridge climb offers unbeatable views of the Opera House, skyline and the endless blue waters of the surrounding coastline.
Choose from daytime, twilight or night climbs, all giving a different vibe to the city’s iconic scenery.
The Rocks
At the foot of the Harbour Bridge lies The Rocks - a historic part of town with cobbled lanes, old pubs, markets, and rooftop bars.
Perfect for a daytime wander or a post-match drink, the area exudes character and is one of the best places to get a feel for Sydney’s colonial past.
Bondi Beach and the Coastal Walk
A visit to Sydney isn’t complete without a stop at Bondi Beach.
Cold beers and sun-soaked energy are in abundance. It’s even better if you are a surfer, with many of Australia's best congregating here daily to catch the waves.
The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a must, with its sea views, dramatic cliffs and perfect swimming spots unmatched along the Australian coast.
Taronga Zoo
A short ferry ride from Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo delivers classic Aussie wildlife with a world-class view.
Get up close with koalas, kangaroos and wombats, all the while Sydney’s skyline casts an incredible shadow in the background.
It’s a great half-day trip for fans looking to sneak some sightseeing in amongst all the rugby chaos.
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour offers an easy blend of attractions, including restaurants, bars, boat rides, and open-air spaces.
There’s often live entertainment, especially around the big events. It’s a fun, accessible area to meet up with fellow fans or unwind by the water after a long day of touring.
Whale-Watching Cruise
Visiting between April and December means that there’s a decent chance of spotting humpbacks on their migration route past Sydney.
Several cruises depart from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, offering a peaceful - and potentially dramatic - escape from the rugby buzz.
Summary
Sydney knows how to host big events, and the city’s sporting passion meets its natural beauty head-on.
From climbing steel arches and spotting whales to beach walks and historic pubs, there’s plenty to do before and after the final whistle.
Matchdays might belong to the rugby, but Sydney owns the rest of the weekend.
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