Viator Rating : 5 (144 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.1/10 (Verified Excellent)
Sydney
Sydney Walking Tour: Explore The Rocks (Small Group)
150
Overview
Discover Sydney and The Rocks on the Sydney Walking Tour including The Rocks (small group)! This historical walking tour, limited to 16 guests, will take you on a journey through 60,000 years of history. Expert guides, with over a decade of experience, will share captivating stories of Sydney's past, from Indigenous wisdom to convict struggles.
Explore iconic landmarks like Hyde Park and St Mary's Cathedral. See the Hyde Park Barracks and Queen's Square. Walk along Macquarie Street and through the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems like the Old Government Stables and The Edge of Trees. Then, immerse yourself in the historic charm of The Rocks, including Customs House, Suez Canal, Nurses Walk, Playfair Street, Argyle Street, George Street, and Campbells Cove. Expect a journey through time, uncovering the secrets of Sydney's most iconic locations.
The tour includes voice amplification for guides, a map of Sydney, and experienced tour guides. It excludes personal expenses. Join this small group tour for an in-depth exploration of Sydney's history and culture. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Expert Guides: Discover Sydney's history with knowledgeable guides who have over 10 years of experience.
Small Group Setting: Enjoy a more personal experience with a small group limited to 16 guests.
Iconic Landmarks: See famous sites like Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral, and The Rocks.
Historical Insights: Learn about Sydney's rich past, from Indigenous heritage to colonial times.
The Rocks Exploration: Wander through the historic streets of The Rocks, discovering its unique charm.
Voice Amplification: Hear your guide clearly with voice amplification technology.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved how much they learned from the guides.
-
Many enjoyed seeing the historical sites in The Rocks.
-
Some reviewers really enjoyed the harbor views.
-
Several felt the tour was a great way to learn about Sydney's history.
A few people found the tour a bit long for walking.
-
Some customers wished for more sitting time.
The Journey
Hyde Park
Escape the city bustle in Australia's oldest park, Hyde Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of Sydney. Wander through its lush lawns, admire the iconic Archibald Fountain and statues, and reflect at the majestic Anzac Memorial. As a witness to significant moments in Australian history, Hyde Park offers a tranquil escape and a beloved gathering place for both locals and visitors.
St Mary's Cathedral
Marvel at the grandeur of St Mary's Cathedral, a towering Gothic masterpiece and symbol of Sydney’s Catholic heritage. Though the tour will not enter the building, its imposing presence against the skyline offers a captivating sight, reminiscent of grand European cathedrals. As the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney, this iconic landmark holds a significant place in the city's history.
Hyde Park Barracks
Delve into Australia's convict past at the Hyde Park Barracks, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This former convict prison and immigration depot stands as a powerful reminder of the country's early colonial history. Although the tour will not enter the building, imagine the lives of those who once walked these grounds as you explore this iconic Sydney landmark.
Queen's Square
Immerse yourself in the heart of Sydney's legal and historical precinct at Queen's Square. Surrounded by grand buildings like the Supreme Court and the Law Courts Building, this iconic square resonates with countless stories and decisions. Take a moment to appreciate the architectural beauty and rich history that permeates this significant urban space.
The Rum Hospital
Explore Sydney's history at the Rum Hospital, Australia's first public hospital, built through a unique deal involving rum! Learn about the challenges faced by early settlers, the hospital's role in colonial life, and its transformation into the heart of Sydney's government. Admire its impressive architecture as you delve into this captivating piece of Australian history.
Macquarie Street
Experience the heart of Sydney's power and history along Macquarie Street. This iconic thoroughfare boasts a stunning collection of architectural gems, including Parliament House, Government House, and the Supreme Court. Discover the stories of the city’s founding fathers and witness the grandeur of Sydney’s past as you walk along this prestigious avenue.
Royal Botanic Garden
Immerse yourself in a lush oasis with a deep connection to Aboriginal culture at the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover diverse plant life from Australia and around the world, learn about its significance to the Gadigal people, the traditional owners of the land, and enjoy breathtaking harbour views as you wander through meticulously landscaped gardens. It's a perfect place to relax and appreciate nature's beauty.
Old Government Stables (Sydney Conservatorium of Music)
Discover a piece of Sydney’s colonial history at the Old Government Stables. Once home to the Governor’s horses and carriages, this historic building now houses the renowned Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Imagine the bustling activity that once filled these stables as you admire its grand architecture. This iconic landmark is a testament to the craftsmanship and skill of early Sydney artisans.
The Edge of Trees
Step into a powerful reflection of Sydney's history at The Edge of Trees. This thought-provoking artwork stands as a poignant reminder of the intersection between Aboriginal and European cultures. Immerse yourself in the installation's intricate design, crafted from wood, stone, and steel. As you explore this unique space, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the land's complex past and the enduring spirit of its people.
Macquarie Place Park
Step back in time at Macquarie Place Park, a historic corner of Sydney. This small but significant park was the city's first public space and holds a special place in Australia's history. Discover fascinating artifacts like the Sirius anchor and the Obelisk of Distances, which marked the starting point for measuring distances across the colony. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this iconic location as you explore its captivating story.
Customs House
Step back in time at Customs House, a magnificent piece of Sydney's history. This iconic building was once the heart of the city's trade, overseeing the arrival of countless ships and goods. Today, it stands as a testament to Sydney's maritime heritage. Admire its stunning architecture and imagine the bustling activity that once filled its halls.
The Rocks
Step back in time as you explore The Rocks, Sydney's historic heart. This vibrant precinct is a living museum, where cobblestone lanes and sandstone buildings tell tales of the city's convict past. Discover the stories of early settlers, explore charming shops, and savor the lively atmosphere. From the iconic Harbour Bridge to the bustling Circular Quay, The Rocks offers a unique blend of history and modern charm.
Suez Canal (The Rocks)
Step back in time as you explore the infamous Suez Canal in The Rocks. Once a notorious haunt for criminals and shadowy characters, this narrow laneway offers a captivating glimpse into The Rocks' underworld. Imagine the stories these weathered stones could tell as you wander through this historic passageway. Discover how this once-dangerous alleyway has transformed into a vibrant hub, while still preserving its intriguing past.
Nurses Walk (The Rocks)
Step into a piece of Sydney's living history on Nurses Walk. This charming laneway, once a bustling thoroughfare for the city's earliest nurses, offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by those pioneering women. Imagine the dedication and courage it took to care for the sick in the early colony. As you stroll through this historic passage, you'll uncover stories of resilience and compassion that shaped Sydney's foundation.
Playfair Street (The Rocks)
Discover the heart of The Rocks on Playfair Street. This charming lane exemplifies the area's historic charm. Imagine the bustling activity that once filled these streets as you explore the beautifully preserved sandstone buildings. From grand terraces to quaint cottages, Playfair Street offers a captivating glimpse into Sydney's colonial past. As you wander through this historic enclave, you'll uncover tales of the people who lived and worked here, bringing the past to life.
Argyle Street (The Rocks)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of The Rocks on Argyle Street. This street has witnessed centuries of change, from its early days as a bustling commercial hub to its present-day role as a vibrant entertainment district. Imagine the hustle and bustle of the convict era as you explore this historic street. Today, Argyle Street offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy, making it a must-visit destination for any visitor to Sydney.
George Street (The Rocks)
Experience the vibrant heart of The Rocks on George Street. This iconic thoroughfare has witnessed centuries of Sydney's history. Today, George Street offers a unique blend of heritage and modern life, with a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Campbells Cove
Discover the magic of Sydney Harbour at Campbells Cove. This picturesque waterfront oasis offers breathtaking views of the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Imagine the bustling activity of the past as you stand on this historic site, once a thriving hub of maritime trade. Today, Campbells Cove is a tranquil retreat, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning Sydney skyline. As you take in the panoramic views, you'll uncover the fascinating stories of this iconic location.
Know Before You Go
This Sydney walking tour includes a 2.5-hour guided walk, a map of Sydney, and expert guides with voice amplification. It does not include personal expenses. The meeting point is at [insert specific location details here]. Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. There are no age restrictions mentioned for this tour.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, because this is a walking tour. Also, many people enjoyed stopping at a cafe in the Rocks after the tour so plan accordingly.
Review Summary
Customers find this Sydney Walking Tour including The Rocks highly engaging, citing knowledgeable and experienced guides who bring Sydney’s rich history to life through detailed storytelling. Positive remarks often highlight the small group setting that allows for a more personalized experience and the scenic end point at Campbells Cove near Circular Quay. Some travelers note the physical demands of the tour due to uneven surfaces and steps, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lack of food and drink inclusion is offset by the convenient access to local pubs and markets at the tour's conclusion. Overall, guests appreciate the historical depth and local insights provided, though the tour's moderate physical activity level may limit accessibility for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Sydney
$215
Blue Mountains Tour: Zoo, Scenic World & Ferry
4.9
(3600 reviews)
Duration: 600
minutes
The Blue Mountains Small-Group Tour from Sydney offers a memorable adventure, exploring iconic landmarks and natural beauty. This tour, limited to 21 people, ensures a personalized experience as it visits the Blue Mountains away from the large crowds.
Guests can expect to see amazing views of the Three Sisters, Jamison Valley, and Megalong Valley. A highlight is the included entry to Scenic World, where visitors can enjoy the Skyway, Railway, and Cableway rides, as well as a walk in the temperate rainforest. The tour also includes entry to Sydney Zoo, where guests can participate in kangaroo and emu feeding.
The day begins with convenient pickup, avoiding the larger tour buses. The adventure also includes crossing the impressive ANZAC Bridge. Key stops include Katoomba and Echo Point, providing panoramic views. The tour concludes with a relaxing ferry ride back to Circular Quay, arriving around 5 pm. Please note that lunch is not included, and pickup is only available at three designated meeting points.
Sydney
$285
Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Day Trip: Lunch & River Cruise
4.9
(7711 reviews)
Duration: 600
minutes
Small All-Inclusive Blue Mountains, Scenic World, Lunch, Cruise. This tour shows off the beauty of the Blue Mountains! A local guide will help you see amazing views and hidden spots that other tours miss. Rated #1 experience in Australia twice on TripAdvisor!
What to Expect: See the famous Three Sisters and visit Scenic World, where you can ride the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway. Enjoy a walk through the rainforest with the guide. You'll also get to see cute Australian animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park or Sydney Zoo, where you can even feed kangaroos! The tour ends with a relaxing boat ride back to Sydney Harbour, passing under the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
This experience includes a river cruise back to Sydney Harbour, entry to an animal park to see kangaroos and koalas, lunch with options for everyone (even vegan and gluten-free!), and entry to Scenic World. Please note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. Also, wheelchairs, walkers, prams, and luggage are not allowed.
Sydney
$277
Hunter Valley Food & Wine Tour: Chef-Led Day Trip
5.0
(724 reviews)
Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney is a special trip that's all about good food and wine. It's not just any wine tour. A chef is the guide, making sure everyone has a great time from the start. The day starts at the Sydney Fish Market, one of the biggest fish markets. The chef picks out fresh seafood before heading to Hunter Valley.
On the way to wine country, there is a stop by the Hawkesbury River for breakfast. In the Hunter Valley, the tour visits three small, special wineries. The chef cooks tasty Australian food that goes well with the wines that are tasted. You might even see kangaroos and birds among the vines. This tour is a calm, fun day with good food and wines.
What to Expect: The tour includes wine tasting at three wineries, a tasty lunch, and snacks. There is also bottled water, breakfast, and other drinks. A comfy, air-conditioned van is used, and you'll have a driver who is also your guide. Some hotels can pick you up and drop you off. What's not included is tips for the chef and driver.
Sydney
$255
Blue Mountains Day Trip: Three Sisters & Scenic World
4.9
(1473 reviews)
Duration: 570
minutes
Discover the beauty of the Blue Mountains with the 'Blue Mountains: Three Sisters, Scenic World and Wildlife Park' tour. This day trip takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through one of Australia's most stunning natural landscapes.
Visitors will start their day with a stop at a charming Blue Mountains village cafe for breakfast, coffee, or tea. Then, they will experience the thrill of all three rides at Scenic World, where they will see rainforests, waterfalls, and impressive cliff faces. The tour includes stops at the iconic Three Sisters, a rock formation significant to the local Aboriginal heritage. Later, they will visit a wildlife park to see kangaroos and koalas up close.
This full-day tour includes national park fees, a knowledgeable driver/guide, lunch, all three rides at Scenic World, breakfast, an early morning Sydney pickup, and entry to the wildlife park. It excludes private purchases from gift shops and extra alcoholic drinks at lunch. With a focus on sharing stories and a passion for the region, this tour promises a memorable experience in the Blue Mountains.
Sydney
$80
Sydney Walking Tour: Small Group, Iconic Sights & Drink
5.0
(507 reviews)
Duration: 210
minutes
Discover the story of Sydney on the Ultimate Sydney Walking Tour. This small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 guests, is perfect for those who have just arrived, locals wanting to learn more, and anyone interested in Australian history, culture, and the First Nations people.
Starting at Customs House, learn about Sydney’s colonization by the British and its impact on the original inhabitants. Walk through key locations like the Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Queen Victoria Building. The tour also visits Hyde Park, Martin Place (including the General Post Office and ANZAC Cenotaph), The Rocks, Opera House and Campbell's Cove, and offers views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Your guide will share different views on Sydney’s growth, talking about Aboriginal leaders, British governors, convicts, and entrepreneurs.
The tour concludes with a drink at a popular brewery with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Enjoy a beer while your host gives recommendations to make your time in Sydney even better – tips you won’t find in a guidebook!
Sydney
$680
Unveiling Aussie Wonders: A Whirlwind Wildlife & Nature Private Tour
5.0
(338 reviews)
Nature and Wildlife: Australia in One Day offers an immersive private tour led by a local expert, showcasing Australia's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Encounter koalas, kangaroos, explore rainforests, discover Aboriginal carvings, and capture stunning views. Indulge in complimentary wine, water, chocolate, and professional photos for lasting memories. An authentic Aussie adventure!
Nearby Events
Sydney Opera House - Concert Hall
Jun 04
7:00 PMAlfie Boe Sydney Opera House: Book Tickets June 2026
Alfie Boe, the world-renowned tenor best known for his iconic role as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, brings his celebrated career to the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall on June 4, 2026.[1] This exclusive Australian performance showcases the award-winning vocalist performing his greatest hits, fan favourites, and tracks from his latest album Facing Myself, accompanied by soprano Amy Manford, who received rave reviews for her portrayal of Christine in Phantom of the Opera.[1]
Boe's return to Australia marks a celebration of his distinguished career spanning stage and screen, delivering an intimate evening of classical and theatrical masterpieces in one of the world's most iconic venues. The Sydney Opera House Concert Hall is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and elegant ambiance, providing the perfect setting for this premium vocal performance.[1]
Accor Stadium
Dec 12
5:00 PMHarry Styles Together Together at Accor Stadium Tickets
Harry Styles: Together, Together lights up Accor Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park with his highly anticipated global residency. Following the release of his fourth studio album Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.*, this pop spectacle promises intimate yet stadium-scale energy, drawing from his *Love On Tour* legacy and the emotional 'Forever, Forever' video that reignited fan frenzy.
Harry Styles captivates with hits from One Direction days to solo anthems, blending pop mastery with theatrical flair that unites massive crowds. Accor Stadium, a premier venue known for hosting world-class events, offers unmatched sightlines and atmosphere for this residency stop.[1][2][3]
WIN Entertainment Centre
July 23
8:00 PMJim Jefferies: Son of a Carpenter at WIN Centre
Jim Jefferies - Son of a Carpenter brings the Australian comedian's razor-sharp wit to WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong. Known for his provocative, belief-challenging humor, Jefferies delivers brutally honest storytelling that has entertained global audiences through stand-up specials like his latest Netflix release Two Limb Policy, tackling topics from tiny mustaches to straight-guy struggles.
Jim Jefferies, a Sydney native who rose to fame after honing his craft in the UK and US, has created iconic shows like FX's Legit and Comedy Central's The Jim Jefferies Show while earning accolades such as Stand-Up Comedian of the Year at Just for Laughs. WIN Entertainment Centre stands as Wollongong's premier venue for live entertainment.
WIN Entertainment Centre
May 21
7:30 PMProf Brian Cox Emergence | Wollongong Tickets
Prof Brian Cox Emergence brings the renowned physicist's latest lecture tour to WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong on May 21, 2026. This seminar event offers audiences a rare opportunity to engage with one of the world's most respected scientists as he explores cutting-edge concepts in physics and the universe, making complex scientific ideas accessible and captivating for attendees of all backgrounds.
Prof Brian Cox is celebrated for his ability to communicate profound scientific discoveries with infectious enthusiasm and clarity, making him one of the most sought-after speakers in the world. WIN Entertainment Centre, located at the corner of Crown and Harbour Streets, is Wollongong's premier venue for hosting world-class performances, lectures, and entertainment experiences.
WIN Entertainment Centre
Mar 07
8:00 PMJimmy Carr Live Comedy in Wollongong 2026
Jimmy Carr brings his award-winning stand-up comedy to WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong, delivering his signature rapid-fire one-liners and dark humor that have made him one of the UK's most successful comedians. The British-Irish performer, renowned for his deadpan delivery and satirical wit, continues to captivate audiences with his sharp, unfiltered comedic style that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions.
With over two decades of entertainment experience, Carr has established himself as a comedic force through numerous television hosting roles and sold-out live performances worldwide. WIN Entertainment Centre, located in Wollongong, NSW, provides an ideal venue for experiencing this master of comedy in an intimate yet dynamic setting.
State Theatre
May 22
7:30 PMRob Anderson: Are You Afraid of the '90s? Sydney
Are You Afraid of the '90s? brings Rob Anderson's viral comedy sensation to State Theatre Sydney, where the NYC-based comedian dissects the formative television, movies, music, and pop culture that defined the 1990s. Through comedic breakdowns, original songs, and diabolical presentations, Anderson explores what the decade's unhinged media taught audiences about teenage pregnancy, drug addiction, and questionable age gaps—all delivered with the sharp wit that made him a New York Times bestselling author and social media phenomenon.[1][3][8]
Rob Anderson has built an international reputation for his ability to deconstruct pop culture with surgical precision and hilarious insight. Known for viral recaps of shows like 7th Heaven and The Berenstain Bears, as well as his international coverage of The Pope Games during the 2025 Papal Conclave, Anderson combines storytelling, music, and multimedia comedy to create an unforgettable live experience.[1][3][4][8] State Theatre Sydney, a premier venue for comedy and arts, provides the perfect setting for this celebration of '90s nostalgia and comedic brilliance.
Unique Things to Do in Sydney – Whale Watching to Blue Mountains Tours
It’s time to discover Sydney beyond the ordinary. This is more than a harbor city — take a Blue Mountains day tour or plan a full Goat Island trip. Indulge with guided food tours, or see whales in Sydney leaping high on the coast. Sydney’s wild too. Find out where to see kangaroos and see the iconic Aussie mascot in real life. Whether you’re chasing nature, cuisine, or adventure, get connected to the most unique things to do in Sydney with Dyvarcity.
View Sydney Activities