The Best Solo Day in Sydney

Stunning Stainglass in the Queen Victoria Building

Sydney, Australia is by far one of my favorite cities I’ve ever visited! From its laid-back culture, decadent food scene, to its beautiful beaches, it is a place I recommend anybody to one day visit when they have the opportunity. Today, I want to share one of the best days I experienced during my entire time in Sydney - a slow, solo Sunday spent exploring the city.

The day began with me watching Sunday service in my room. I had hoped to attend a local church in Sydney, but it didn't end up working out. In turn, I decided to embrace a slow, self paced day taking an adventure through the city to a lot of the places I had on my bucket list for Sydney on my Notes app.

Most of my friends were away for the weekend, either exploring Melbourne or the Gold Coast, so I had time to go on my own adventure to some new places in Sydney I had been wanting to explore.

One thing about me is that I love discovering new places and taking myself on solo dates, so I knew this day was going to be a good one.

Gibbon’s Street Cafe

Once I got ready for the day, I walked down the street to Gibbon’s Street Cafe, a brunch spot down the street.

I sat in a cozy sunlit spot, and from the warm and inviting ambiance to the decadent and rich food, this restaurant ended up being one of my favorites during my entire trip.

I ordered a butterfly pea lemonade and their specialty french toast. Both were absolutely stunning - a literal work of art. It was nice soaking in the charming scenery while enjoying this delicious meal.

Gibbon’s Street Cafe Butterfly Pea Lemonade & French Toast

After brunch, I hopped on the train to Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), where the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is located.

The Queen Victoria Building is a Romanesque architectural masterpiece that houses Australian and international luxury designers, boutiques, and shops, as well as restaurants and other specialty stores. The QVB instantly captivated me - from the vivid, colorful, and intricate stained glass to the enchanting iron and tile work. And the bright and welcoming glow from the sunlight streaming through the building.

The Queen Victoria Building in Sydney, Australia

During my time in the QVB, I ended up buying a gorgeous gold bracelet as well as trying a croissant from one of the cafes. But most of my time was taken exploring this luxurious building, going up and down the escalators and admiring the various unique designs from the fashion boutiques.

Of course, I also had the best time taking photos of the architecture and stained glass from various perspectives. This was a such a lovely experience walking through the gorgeous Queen Victoria Building!

Next, it was time to hop on another train to visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, which ended up being one of my favorite stops of the entire day. There is just something so special and inspiring about seeing the work of talented artists throughout history and imagining the stories behind their work.

Going through an art museum solo is something I definitely recommend. If you are someone who enjoys truly taking in the moment and appreciating the story behind the art, then this is definitely the place for you.

During this time in the Art Gallery of New South Wales, I moved at my own pace reading the plaques and observing the artworks. It was such a magical and cinematic experience walking through independently through the gallery in no hurry or rush. My only objective was to appreciate the art and be in the moment - it was absolute bliss.

I gained so much inspiration from the different pieces I observed and studied as I perused through the art exhibits.

When it was time to head out of the art museum, I stopped to the gift store where I found the cutest postcards that featured artwork from the gallery’s collection. I got several of them, and they were the perfect gifts for my friends and family!

Art Gallery of New South Wales

As the evening was approaching and sunset drew near, I decided to grab dinner to go and to walk to my absolute favorite spot in Sydney: Observatory Hill.

Observatory Hill captivated me the very first time I visited there. It offers the perfect view of the setting sun on a field of grass overlooking the city. After I picking up a burger from a new place I tried, I strolled over to The Rocks and then made my way to The Hill. I got there just in time to capture golden hour, one of my absolute favorite times of the day!

It was so gorgeous and surreal, and I was able to capture the most beautiful photos I took in my entire time in Sydney (ones that would become the very inspiration for my very first professional portfolio).

This moment in Sydney was absolutely golden. The view was breathtaking, the weather was perfect, and everyone around me was taking in the scenery and enjoying those they were with….It was truly amazing.

Again, I am so glad that I was solo this day, because that meant I could stay there as long as I wanted to, but then again I was solo and I also had to be more aware of my surroundings and make sure I got home safe (Sydney is the safest city I've have ever been to btw).

I stayed to watch golden hour fade into sunset and afterglow give way to blue hour. It was so stunning seeing the wonderful gradients and hues of light shift across the sky. It was mesmerizing….

Observatory Hill: My Favorite Sunset Spot in Sydney

Later, I walked to the viewpoint on the hill where you can see the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I was able to take photos of the landscape as well as take a couple’s picture. They were kind enough to take photos of me as well which was so sweet.

Once I was done taking pictures, I walked toward the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Circular Quay.

Circular Quay at night is an experience. From the relaxing ambient glow of the city to the beautiful nighttime views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, I believe everyone should be able to experience the atmospheric feeling of Sydney after dark.

As I continued walking, a light rain began to fall. I continued down the path lined with restaurants near the Sydney Harbour Bridge is found. It was so nice being able to see the Opera House from this unique angle.

I eventually made it right up to the bridge and captured a few photos on my digital camera. They turned out stunning, even down to the precious raindrops.

Thank you for joining me on this fun solo day exploring the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia! Feel free to let me know if you want any recommendations or have any further questions for your next time in Sydney.

Sydney Harbour Bridge at Night

Spending a solo day in Sydney felt like a movie to me. There is something so sweet and special about exploring a new city on your own. You become so present, completely enamored with the moment. It is such a beautiful experience.

Now it was officially night, and time to take the train back home. I sat watching Circular Quay become more and more distant and reminisced on the day I had just experienced. This day was truly one of my favorite days in Sydney - and one of my favorite days of my life. One I will never forget….

Observatory Hill During Blue Hour