Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour is an exciting and vibrant part of Sydney and is home to many major attractions
Darling Harbour is a great place for a stroll along the Sydney waterfront, but be prepared to be distracted by its many activities including tourist attractions, dining, shopping, nightlife, festivals and more. There is almost no end of things to see and do in and around this exciting and vibrant part of Sydney where there are lots of things are happening both day and night.
Located at the western periphery of the Central Business District and the northern edge of Chinatown, Darling Harbour is very central and very easy to access by public transport. A Cinderella story, Darling Harbour was transformed from a decommissioned and run down NSW Railway's marshalling and freight yard, into a beautiful pedestrian friendly part of Sydney that is now very popular with tourists and locals alike. You can catch a Ferry at the Pyrmont Bay or King Street Wharf and enjoy a view of the harbour from the perspective of the water. You will often see a large cruise ship berthed on the east side of the harbour, an area now known as Barangaroo.
The harbour extends along both sides of Cockle Bay and beyond and offers a pleasant place to stroll and access to many of Sydney's major attractions. At the south end of Cockle Bay you will find the Sydney Visitor Centre and a little beyond that on the other side of Tumbalong Park you can enjoy a visit to the beautiful Chinese Garden of Friendship.
During the month of December there are fireworks every Saturday beginning about 9pm. For more information about events happening in and around Darling Harbour you may want to check out their official website: Darling Harbour.
Nearby attractions: Chinese Gardens, Imax Theatre, Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney, Madame Tussauds, Australian National Maritime Museum, Star Casino and Lyric Theatre, Sydney Town Hall and St Andrew's Cathedral.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee:Address: Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9240 8500
Official Website: Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour Reviews
Rated out of 5
Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s most vibrant and bustling waterfront destinations. Located close to the city center, it offers a variety of attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues for both locals and tourists. With its picturesque views of the harbor, it’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks, boat rides, or simply relaxing by the water.
The area is home to several notable attractions, including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum, and the Darling Quarter playground, making it ideal for families. Darling Harbour also hosts year-round events, including fireworks displays, festivals, and cultural exhibitions, adding to its lively atmosphere. With a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafés, it’s a popular dining spot with scenic views of the harbor. Whether for day trips or nighttime outings, Darling Harbour offers something for everyone.
Scott Nguyen - a week ago
If you're looking to take a walk around Sydney, Darling Harbour is a must-visit. It’s a lovely spot with plenty of open spaces, right in the middle of the bustling city. There are lots of areas for kids to play and a variety of places to eat, offering cuisines like Chinese, Korean, Thai, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for street food or a nice restaurant, there’s something for everyone.
The view of the harbour is especially beautiful in the evening. Even though it can get crowded, there's still plenty of room to move around comfortably. Just watch out for bikes, as they zip by pretty quickly!
If you're looking for a peaceful, green escape, check out the Chinese Garden of Friendship. It’s a hidden gem, and for just AUD 11, it’s well worth the visit. Plus, Darling Harbour is close to Chinatown if you want to explore that area too.
Tharushi Galhenage - a week ago
One of the best place in Sydney. Loved the environment. World-class. My dream from 1996 to see this place 😍. Indian movie staring Kamalahasan made this place favourite for Indians.Walking around this place ❤️ should be blessed. The view of the famous Opera house is amazing. Energetic and passionate people love the place. Mind relaxing and best tourist spot. Experience the best place ✨️.
Ramani Ponnambalam - 2 months ago
Great views and a lovely location to just take a good walk around. It offers a lovely curry skyline and lots of good restaurants in the area. Darling Harbour is a darling of a place to be!
Nikhil Malankar - a week ago
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, Darling Harbour remains an exceptional destination for everyone—children, families, and adults alike. The area has been newly redeveloped, featuring a variety of restaurants, playgrounds for children, and a completely pedestrianised zone, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings.
Ben Saravia - a week ago
Directions
| Train Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Light Rail - L1 | Harbourside or Pyrmont Bay | 0 minutes |
| L2, T1, T2, T3 or T4 | Town Hall | 7 minutes |
| T1, T2, T3 or T8 | Wynward | 7 minutes |
How to get to Darling Harbour by Train
By Light Rail: Two Light Rail Stations on Line 1 serve the Pyrmont (west) side of Darling Harbour and access to the harbourside is evident as soon as you exit.
By Train or Light Rail L2: From Town Hall Station, walk north to Druitt Street and proceed west watching for the pedestrian ramp off to your right. Follow the ramp to the harbourside. From Wynward Station go right (south) on York Street then right again on Erskine Street and continue to the Wharfs (either is about a 7 minute walk).
You can also get access to Darling Harbour via pedestrian ramps from Market Street or King Street.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Darling Harbour:
Photo Gallery
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Pananoramic view of Darling Harbour cc licensed photo by Wykymania -
People out enjoying the pedestrian friendly Darling Harbour cc licensed photo by savv -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jack Slack - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: johncooke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: johncooke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sidneiensis - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Tim J Keegan - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Dushan Hanuska - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Tim J Keegan - cc license via Flickr
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