5 things to do in Sydney this October long weekend

As Sydney enjoys warmer days and longer nights in spring, get into the swing of it with these top sights and events to enjoy over the October Labour Day long weekend.

1. Stroll and see the sights at your own pace

Walking’s a great way to experience Sydney’s fresh air and sunshine, and locals and visitors alike usually use the October long weekend to spend some time outdoors. For unbeatable Sydney views, take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Meander along the various beaches, cliff faces, parks, rock spools and aqua-blue bays in Sydney’s eastern suburbs by day, and by night enjoy the eclectic Bondi dining and bar scene.

If you prefer to stay close to the city, try the stroll from Anzac Bridge to Pyrmont Bridge, which offers unrivalled views of Cockle Bay and Darling Harbour. Be sure to check out the Fish Markets for lunch, and if you haven’t had your fill of walking by then, continue on to Barangaroo Park.

Where to stay:  Sydney can be a bit tough to navigate with public transport, particularly on public holidays, so stay close to where you want to spend your time. Our pick for Bondi is the Adina Apartment Hotel Bondi Beach, and for staying close to the city, Four Points by Sheraton Sydney Darling Harbour.

2. Get into the groove at Manly Jazz

The October long weekend turns the buzzing beachside suburb of Manly into a dancing hub with the annual Manly Jazz festival. The event boasts a stellar array of international and local acts, from traditional New Orleans to funk and blues to foot-tapping swing and roots music.

Indoor and outdoor venues take up a 2.4-kilometre stretch of Manly’s surf beach for a soulful celebration of music, food and culture. You can reach Manly via a short and picturesque ferry ride from Circular Quay.

Stay nearby at: The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach lets you enjoy the best of one of Sydney’s most famous beaches. If you’re looking for something with a little more space to accommodate a group, check out Manly Surfside Holiday Apartments.

3. Hit the weekend markets

Sydney has no shortage of excellent weekend markets to suit every taste and style, offering vibrant atmospheres, amazing food and bargains that are hard to beat.

Places to include on your market trail include Glebe Markets and Paddington Markets for clothes, jewellery, artisan wares and bric-a-brac. Alternatively, The Rocks Markets and Marrickville Organic Market deliver fresh locally made food complete with great coffee options.

Stay nearby at: The charming Verona Guest House Sydney is a perfect choice for couples looking for some quiet time together, while the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is the perfect place to be if you’re looking to stay close to the excitement in the city.

4. Feel the team spirit at the NRL Grand Final

Football fans know that Sunday on the Labour Day long weekend is all about donning your team’s jersey and getting down to ANZ Stadium in Olympic Park to watch Australia’s best rugby league players battle it out in the NRL Grand Final. The energy and team spirit at this wildly popular sporting event will convert non-rugby fans within minutes of kick-off. Purchase your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Stay nearby at: For a luxurious experience, you can’t miss the Pullman Sydney Olympic Park. If you’re looking for a more family and budget-friendly accommodation, the Ibis Sydney Olympic Park offers child-minding services and is within minutes from the Sydney International Aquatic Centre and Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre.

5. Sing along to My Fair Lady

Musical lovers rejoice – Dame Julie Andrews is in town to direct a special 60th anniversary production of the classic musical My Fair Lady at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Dame Julie, at just 20, performed as Eliza Doolittle when My Fair Lady debuted on Broadway in 1956. As you can imagine, tickets are selling fast so get yours quickly, or check out other events raising the Opera House roof over the October long weekend.

Stay nearby at: Perfect for art enthusiasts, the Sir Stamford at Circular Quay Hotel Sydney is a beautiful retreat that displays one of Australia’s largest fine art and antique collections. If chic décor and superb dining is what you’re after, stay at the Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection, located close to the city’s vibrant nightlife.

With so much to see and do in this October long weekend, make sure you book your travel dates soon, and choose your ideal Sydney hotel so you can stay right where the action is.