Sydney is a city that loves to be outside. Whether you’re tracing the curve of the coastline, wandering through native bushland or pedalling past iconic landmarks, there’s always something new to discover. With a rich mix of walking trails and guided tours, the region invites locals and visitors alike to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage and vibrant urban energy, all at your own pace. 

Coastal walks with wow factor 

Sydney’s coastline is more than just a pretty backdrop. The coast it’s a living, breathing landscape that offers some of the best walks in Australia. The coastal routes offer a front-row seat to the drama of the Pacific Ocean, the charm of seaside suburbs and the serenity of hidden coves. 

The Bondi to Coogee walk is a classic for good reason. Stretching six kilometres along the eastern suburbs, it links some of Sydney’s most beloved beaches with cliffside views, ocean pools and plenty of spots to pause for a coffee or swim. It’s a walk that blends leisure with spectacle, perfect for first-time visitors or weekend returners. 

Further north, the Spit Bridge to Manly walk offers a more immersive experience. Winding through bushland and hugging the harbour’s edge, this 10km trail reveals Aboriginal rock engravings, quiet beaches and panoramic lookouts. It’s part of the longer Bondi to Manly Walk, a 80km journey that connects Sydney’s two most iconic beaches via a network of coastal and harbourside paths. 

For those seeking solitude and sea spray, the Federation Cliff walk in Dover Heights delivers. With dramatic cliff faces and uninterrupted ocean views, it’s a short but beautiful walk that feels worlds away from the city even though it’s just minutes from Bondi. 

If you’re after something gentler, the Hermitage Foreshore Track between Rose Bay and Nielsen Park offers a relaxed stroll with postcard-perfect views of Sydney Harbour, Shark Island and the Opera House. It’s a walk that blends heritage, nature and harbour charm in equal measure.

Bushland Escapes Near the City 

Sydney’s bushwalks offer a different kind of beauty quieter, greener, and rich in native flora and fauna. These trails are perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature without leaving the city behind. 

The Fairyland Loop Track in Lane Cove National Park is a peaceful escape, winding through eucalyptus forest along the Lane Cove River. It’s a haven for birdlife and a gentle introduction to Sydney’s bushland. 

In North Parramatta, the Lake Circuit at Lake Parramatta Reserve offers a 4.2km loop through remnant Cumberland Plain bushland. With lakeside views, shaded paths and picnic spots, it’s a family-friendly walk that feels surprisingly wild. 

Nearby, the Binyang Matta Trail in Western Sydney Parklands is a 6.7km track named after the Dharug word for “place of birds.” It’s a celebration of Western Sydney’s natural beauty, with interpretive signage and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching. 

For more experienced hikers, the Wentworth Pass Loop in the Blue Mountains is a challenging adventure. With waterfalls, rainforest gullies and dramatic escarpment views, it’s a trail that rewards effort with awe. For those wanting expert insight, the Grand Clifftop walk offers a guided experience with Blue Mountains Adventure Company ECO certified and rich in local knowledge. 

Urban trails with character 

Sydney’s urban walks are where nature meets neighbourhood. These trails offer a unique blend of heritage, community and green space. The perfect walk between pints or a bite to eat. 

The Glebe Foreshore Walk is a standout, linking parks, wetlands and heritage sites along the harbour’s edge. With views of the Anzac Bridge and city skyline, it’s a walk that’s as scenic as it is social. It’s dog-friendly, family-friendly and full of local charm. 

In Manly Vale, the Manly Dam Walk offers multiple loops around a tranquil reservoir. It’s popular with walkers, runners and mountain bikers, with bushland trails and water views that make it feel far from the city. 

Further west, the Nepean River Walk near Blackheath offers a quiet riverside trail with native wildlife and a country feel. It’s a great option for those looking to slow down and soak up the serenity. 

Guided Cycling and Running Tours 

For those who prefer to explore at pace, Sydney’s guided cycling and running tours offer active ways to connect with the city and its surrounds. These experiences blend fitness with storytelling, giving you a deeper appreciation of the places you pass through. 

Bonza Bike Tours and Sydney Harbour Bike Tours are perfect for first-time visitors, offering curated rides through Sydney’s highlights. From Circular Quay to Darling Harbour, with plenty of stops and stories along the way. 

In Manly, Manly Bikes lets you explore beachside paths and bushland trails at your own rhythm, while Bespoke Cycle Tours offers tailored experiences that showcase Sydney’s iconic beaches and hidden corners. 

For runners, Fit City Tours delivers themed jogs through historic precincts, sunrise runs along the harbour and fitness-focused sightseeing with a twist. 

In the Blue Mountains, Blue Mountains Biking Adventures offers thrilling trails and epic views for mountain bikers, while Tread Lightly Eco Tours provides guided bushwalks that delve into geology, ecology and Aboriginal heritage. 

And for a wellness-focused experience, Natcha Cultural Tours in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park blends nature, mindfulness and cultural storytelling a truly holistic way to explore. 

Whether you’re walking, running or riding, Sydney’s trails and tours offer more than just exercise, they’re a way to connect with place, people and the stories that shape them. From coastal cliffs to mountain paths, urban parks to guided adventures, there’s a journey waiting for every kind of traveller.