7D6N Muslim-Friendly Sydney & Beyond: The Perfect Family Holiday Itinerary

This article is created in collaboration with Hariani Ismail, an Indonesian travel content creator passionate about all things travel! From detailed travel guides and easy-to-follow itinerary planners to cosy staycation ideas, Hariani brings her love for discovering beautiful destinations and sharing practical tips to every adventure. Together, we’re excited to bring you inspiring travel ideas, helpful recommendations, and plenty of wanderlust for your next getaway.

Get ready for an exciting 7-day, 6-night family adventure through vibrant Sydney and the stunning sights just beyond the city in the beautiful region of New South Wales. This fun-filled itinerary is packed with family-friendly experiences—including iconic landmarks, amazing wildlife encounters, breathtaking nature escapes and handy halal food recommendations along the way.

Whether you’re travelling with kids, as a couple, or with the whole family, this guide makes exploring Sydney and the surroundings easy and enjoyable.

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• Walk towards Sydney Harbour Bridge (follow the Bridge Stairs signboard) and take a walk on the Sydney Harbour Bridge like a local!
• Yes, it’s free - the 2.4km journey will take about a 20-minute walk.
• You can walk across the bridge to Luna Park, Sydney’s iconic theme park, or check out the breathtaking view of Sydney Harbour from Milsons Point.
• Take your visit to the Sydney Harbour Bridge to a whole new level (literally!) and join the BridgeClimb tour! There are different tours, including climbing the bridge during sunset.
• Yes, children are welcome too! Check out their website for more information.
• You can enjoy unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House.

• What’s a trip to Sydney without visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House?
• While you’re there, enjoy one of the many different tour options:
  • The Foodie Tour - enjoy a dining experience at the Sydney Opera House,
  • The Sydney Opera House Tour - where you’ll learn about the history and uncover untold stories,
  • The Backstage Tour - walk through rehearsal spaces that are not open to the public, and
  • The Sydney Opera House Mobility Access Tour, designed for patrons with limited mobility, so everyone can enjoy Sydney’s most iconic building.
• There’s always an event happening here, ranging from workshops, theatre, opera, dance performances and live music concerts. Check out the Sydney Opera House website for the full schedule.

Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm

Website

• Discover the wonders of natural history and culture at the Australian Museum, Sydney's premier destination for heritage and science enthusiasts.
• Known affectionately as "the Dinosaur Museum," it offers an impressive journey back in time. Delve into the world of prehistoric creatures in the Dinosaurs section on Level 2, where you can marvel at the giant fossilised skeletons and life-size casts of Australian dinosaurs, alongside the renowned Stegosaurus and T.Rex.
• It's an experience that brings ancient worlds to life for visitors of all ages!

Address: 1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia

Opening hours: 9am - 9pm

Website

Credit: The Australian National Maritime Museum

• Dive into maritime history at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Here, the highlight is the HMAS Onslow submarine tour, offering a rare glimpse into life underwater.
• Step aboard this Cold War-era vessel and explore the confines where sailors lived and worked.
• This immersive experience not only educates but also fascinates, providing a unique perspective on Australia's naval history.

Address: 2 Murray St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm

Website

• Set sail for shimmering Sydney Harbour! Glide past the iconic Opera House and majestic Bridge on a Sydney Harbour cruise.
• Enjoy the sunset on deck, indulge in a delicious dinner (all with halal options!), and snap unforgettable photos.
• Spot playful dolphins, learn fascinating facts about Sydney's history, or simply relax and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

• Taronga Zoo, with spectacular views of beautiful Sydney Harbour, is a great attraction to see native wildlife and rare exotic animals.
• Get here with the ferry from Circular Quay — it’s only a 12-minute journey and you get to enjoy fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour! And yes, you can use your Opal card.

• Experience the spectacular Free Flight Bird Show, showcasing a variety of birds in action against the backdrop of the stunning harbour – a true million-dollar view!
• Don't miss the educational and entertaining 'Seal for the Wild' presentation to learn about marine conservation and see these playful creatures in action.
• Soak up breathtaking Sydney Harbour views, watch the Asian Elephant herd play and spot the gorillas as they explore their home.
• Ever wanted a bird’s-eye view? Try the Wild Ropes adventure with its zip lines and suspension bridges.
• There are plenty of animal encounters that you can experience at Taronga Zoo and here’s your chance to grab a picture with the famous Australian icon - the cuddly koalas!
• Learn about these incredibly curious species from the expert keepers and get the opportunity to feed them some of their favourite snacks!
• You can also choose to stay overnight at Taronga Zoo. Take your pick: a thoughtfully curated designer room at Wildlife Retreat that allows you to overlook bushland, come eye-to-eye with animals or gaze across stunning Sydney Harbour; or try a ‘wilder’ experience with Roar and Snore, a harbour-side campsite where you can get up close to some of the zoo’s friendliest residents.

Opening hours: 9.30am - 5pm (Daily)
Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia

Website

• Head over to Luna Park Sydney, a place where fun is always in full swing and the entrance is completely free!
• There’s plenty of adventure here for thrill-lovers. Purchase your ride passes and brace yourself for the classic Ferris wheel, feel the rush on the Hair Raiser drop tower, and whirl through history on the heritage-listed Wild Mouse rollercoaster.
• Keep little ones smiling with a whirl on the Bug Ferris wheel, a bounce with the Freaky Frogs, and a classic spin on the Carousel.
• Get ready to be whisked away into the enchanting Dream Circus, a new 360 immersive experience that will leave you spellbound (additional fee applies).

Address: 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia

Website

• End your day on a high note with dinner at Nick’s Seafood, a popular restaurant overlooking the beautiful view of Darling Harbour. If you’re here on a Saturday night, you’re in for a treat as there’ll be a fireworks show accompanying your dinner! (Subject to weather conditions, check the City of Sydney’s website for the fireworks schedule)
• The restaurant was almost full when we arrived, so reservations are highly recommended.
• Must-tries – especially for seafood lovers - are the lobster pasta (a red sauce spaghetti with lobster meat) and the Fisherman’s Platter, which includes the catch of the day, soft shell crab, golden fried king prawns, panko crumbed calamari rings with chips, homemade tartare sauce and served with Greek salad.
• We can also recommend the signature Nick’s Seafood Platter, where you’ll have a choice of lobster, freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters, deep-fried calamari, grilled fish, tempura prawns and chips.

Halal status: No pork and no alcohol are used in the cooking but alcohol is served in the restaurant. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours:

Monday to Saturday: 11:30 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm

Sunday: 11:30 am–10 pm

Address: The Promenade, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

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• Enjoy Sydney’s coffee culture at one of the popular cafes in Bondi Beach - bills!
• Be sure to try out bills’ famous ricotta hotcakes and corn fritters.
• There are plenty of Muslim-friendly dishes as it offers a vegetarian-based menu, including smashed avocado on toast, scrambled eggs and coconut bread.

Halal status: Pork is served as an add-on and alcohol is served. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (Daily)

Address: 79 Hall Street, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

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• The Bondi Icebergs Club features the world-famous ocean pool, a photogenic spot that blends the energy of the ocean with the tranquility of a swimming pool.
• A must-visit for those looking to capture that perfect Instagram moment against the backdrop of Bondi's crashing waves!

• A scenic coastal walk that offers breathtaking views of cliffs, bays, and rock pools.
• Spanning approximately 6 km, this path takes you through a series of beaches, including Tamarama and Bronte, making it a picturesque adventure while getting some exercise in.

Your walk will wrap up beautifully at Coogee Beach. If you’re planning to head straight into the CBD to catch the sunset from the magnificent Sydney Tower Eye, getting there from Coogee is incredibly straightforward!

• Step 1: From Coogee Beach, hop onto the 373 or 374 bus or take a short bus ride to the Randwick Light Rail station.
• Step 2: Catch the light rail (L2 line) straight into the CBD and alight at QVB (Queen Victoria Building) Station or Bridge Street.
• Step 3: From the station, it’s just a short 5-minute stroll over to Westfield Sydney. Head inside the shopping centre and take the lift or escalator up to Level 5—and you've arrived at the Sydney Tower Eye!
• Total Travel Time: Around 40–50 minutes, depending on traffic and waiting times.

To make your journey completely hassle-free, you don’t even need a physical transport card! Simply use Google Maps to check live schedules and tap on and off using your contactless credit card, smartwatch, or a local Opal card.

• Elevate your Sydney experience with a visit to Sydney Tower Eye, the city's tallest structure and a landmark offering panoramic views.
• From the observation deck, gaze out over the sprawling city, the Blue Mountains, and the beautiful harbour.
• For thrill-seekers, the Sydney Tower Eye's SKYWALK offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
• Step onto a glass-floored viewing platform at the tower's summit, 268 meters above the city streets, for an unmatched bird's-eye view of Sydney.
• This guided tour not only provides you with breathtaking views but also enriches your knowledge with fascinating insights about the city's history and landmarks.

Address: Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (Daily)

Website

• Sydney Fish Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
• The newly upgraded Sydney Fish Market reopened in January this year and you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood options like grilled fish, prawns, and oysters—just be mindful to choose Muslim-friendly items that do not include alcohol.
• We recommend the oysters, king crab legs, nori tacos and sushi.

#HHWTTip: Seafood is usually halal, but be sure to ask if there’s alcohol or mirin added to the dishes before ordering.

Address: 1 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037, Australia

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (Daily)

Website

• Begin your day by visiting some cute animals at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, conveniently located along Darling Harbour.
• Enjoy a unique Breakfast with Koalas (book in advance!), and don't miss the engaging zookeeper talks for an up-close animal experience.

Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm

Website

• After a morning with the cute koalas, it’s time to hunt for food. Take a 10-minute walk to Pitt Street to find some comfort food.
• A true Indonesian street food gem, Pandawa Nasi Bungkus offers a vibrant spread of nasi-based dishes bursting with flavour.
• Choose from an array of dishes like rendang, ayam goreng, sambal eggs, and more—all served with fragrant rice.
• Everything is halal and prepared with traditional spices, making it a favourite among locals craving authentic Indonesian cuisine. It’s casual and incredibly satisfying.

Halal status: Halal-certified

Address: Wesley Mission Building, 220 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours:

Sunday - Wednesday: 11 am–9 pm

Thursday - Saturday: 11 am–10 pm

Website

• After you’ve filled your belly, enjoy the 10-minute stroll back to Darling Harbour for your next creature adventure at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.
• Meet playful penguins at the Penguin Expedition, explore touchable wonders at the Discovery Rockpool, and encounter the lovely dugongs at Dugong Island.

Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm

Website

After meeting iconic animals, it’s time to come face-to-face with some of the most famous humans in the world!

• Bring on the poses! Visit Madame Tussauds Sydney to take selfies with wax figures of famous celebrities and icons.
• Dive into interactive zones for a taste of fame and entertainment.

Address: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm

Website

• If you have time and the weather is perfect, explore Darling Harbour and unwind at Tumbalong Park Playground, ideal for family fun with water play areas and climbing structures.

Looking for something nourishing? JIHO Samgyetang serves comforting Korean ginseng chicken soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

The star dish, samgyetang, features a whole chicken stuffed with rice, herbs, and ginseng, simmered to perfection. It’s rich, soothing, and perfect for chilly Sydney evenings. Known for its quality and authenticity, this spot is a lovely change from typical halal fare.

Halal status: Muslim-friendly (may serve rice wine in some dishes, so please ask the staff before ordering)

Address: 76-78 Liverpool St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Opening hours:

Monday - Thursday: 11am - 3pm, 4pm - 10.30pm

Friday: 11am - 3pm, 4pm - 11pm

Saturday: 11am - 11pm

Sunday: 11am - 9.30 pm

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• If you’re here on a Saturday, end your day with the spectacular Darling Harbour Fireworks at 9pm!

• Escape the hustle and bustle of Sydney for a day and venture into the heart of nature with a trip to the majestic Blue Mountains.
• A UNESCO World Heritage site, this natural wonderland invites you to immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and eucalyptus-clad canyons.

• Begin your adventure with a visit to the iconic Three Sisters rock formation at Echo Point, a sight to behold with its ancient, rugged peaks set against panoramic vistas.
• For more active travellers, the Blue Mountains offer myriad hiking trails that range from leisurely walks to challenging treks, each revealing the area's stunning flora and fauna.
• No trip here is complete without a stop at Scenic World, one of the best ways to experience the landscape from every angle.

Descend into the Jamison Valley on the world’s steepest train, the Scenic Railway, or glide on the Scenic Cableway past Orphan Rock and the iconic Three Sisters.

• Tempus Katoomba is perfect if you’re looking for a restaurant that serves locally sourced dishes that taste and look amazing.
• Each of the dishes is carefully curated and cooked to perfection. Some of the must-tries include chargrilled baby gem, handmade tagliatelle pasta with anchovy and miso eggplant salad.

Halal status: No pork on the menu and alcohol is served at the restaurant. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.

Address: 66 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

Opening hours:

Monday and Friday: 7 am–2 pm, 5–10 pm

Tuesday - Thursday: 7 am–2 pm

Saturday and Sunday: 12–10 pm

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• For your sixth day, embark on an unforgettable day trip to Port Stephens, a haven of natural beauty and aquatic adventures.

• Begin your journey with a visit to Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, an interactive experience that brings you face-to-face with these fascinating sea creatures.
• Dive into a world of gentle rays and friendly sharks, learning about their habitats and conservation.

• Next, feel the thrill of boundless nature at the expansive Stockton Bight Sand Dunes. Climb aboard a 4WD or grab a sandboard to glide down these towering dunes, an exhilarating activity for all ages!
• If you’re visiting between May and November, a whale-watching cruise is a must.
• These playful creatures are best seen between May and November when they are most active and abundant.
• Glide through the crystal-clear waters as you watch dolphins dance in their natural habitat, a truly magical experience that connects you with the wonders of the marine world.

• The place serves all the comforting Thai classics you’d expect—simple, flavourful, and perfect for a casual meal. Start with a steaming bowl of seafood tom yum, which came packed with a nice balance of sour, spicy, and aromatic broth.
• We also recommend the cashew nut chicken and vegetables in hoisin sauce.
• Overall, it was a simple, satisfying Thai dinner—hearty dishes done well and perfect for sharing.

Address: 50 Austral St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

Opening hours: 11 am–1:30 pm, 4:30–8:45 pm (closed on Tuesdays)

• Start your shopping adventure at the factory outlets of Birkenhead Point and DFO Homebush. These destinations offer fashion aficionados the chance to snag deals on designer brands at a fraction of the price.
• Round off your journey at the bustling Pitt Street Mall, a pedestrian paradise brimming with a range of stores from global brands to local boutiques, ensuring a shopping experience as diverse as Sydney itself.
• Be sure to stop by the world’s largest flagship LEGO store at Pitt Street Mall too! Explore this wonderland of creativity and innovation, featuring exclusive sets and a unique build-your-own experience that delights both young and old.
• Check out the historical grandeur of the Queen Victoria Building (QVB), where shopping meets architectural beauty. Wander through its grand halls adorned with stained glass windows and intricate tiling, hosting an array of high-end boutiques and charming cafes, perfect for a leisurely break.
• Wanna shop smart? Check out these 17 Brands Cheaper In Australia Than Back Home!

Reflect on a week well spent in the diverse landscapes of Sydney, from bustling city streets to serene natural escapes. This itinerary has guided you through Sydney's landmarks, from underwater adventures to mountaintop views, ensuring a spectrum of experiences. Ready to plan your own Aussie adventure? Find more Muslim-friendly travel ideas at australia.com.

This article is brought to you by Tourism Australia.