Must-Visit Attractions in Sydney with a Hire Car
Must-Visit Attractions in Sydney with a Hire Car
Exploring Sydney is an adventure waiting to happen – and the best way to experience its iconic sights, hidden gems, and surrounding natural beauty is with the freedom of your own hire car. Whether you’re a visitor flying into the Harbour City or a local looking to escape the daily grind, YesDrive has you covered with reliable, affordable car hire options in both Sydney and Hobart.
Here’s a list of must-visit attractions in and around Sydney that are perfect to explore with a hire car – plus a few handy travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
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Bondi to Coogee Coastal Drive
Start your journey close to the city by taking the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk – or better yet, drive along the coast and stop off wherever you fancy.
Highlights along the drive include:
Bondi Beach: Grab a coffee and watch the surfers.
Bronte and Clovelly: Perfect for a quick dip or picnic.
Coogee: End the trip with some local fish and chips by the beach.
Travel Tip: Early mornings and weekdays offer the best chance to avoid beach parking congestion.
The Blue Mountains: Nature’s Playground
Just a 90-minute drive west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer cool air, stunning views, and charming townships – ideal for a weekend escape.
Don’t miss:
Three Sisters at Echo Point
Scenic World with its skyway and railway rides
Leura and Katoomba: Great for browsing local shops and cafés
Travel Tip: Leave Sydney before 9 AM to avoid traffic and make the most of your day in the mountains.
Palm Beach and Northern Beaches Escape
Hop in your YesDrive hire car and cruise up the coast to Palm Beach, a scenic gem located at the tip of the Northern Beaches peninsula.
Things to do:
Climb the Barrenjoey Lighthouse for panoramic views
Enjoy lunch by the water at a local bistro
Explore nearby spots like Avalon, Newport, and Narrabeen Lagoon
This coastal drive is about enjoying the journey as much as the destination – so pack a playlist, roll down the windows, and enjoy the breeze.
Travel Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, go early to secure a parking spot at the popular beaches.
Royal National Park: A Day Trip Dream
Located about 1.5 hours south of the city, Royal National Park is perfect for a nature-filled day trip or a weekend of hiking and swimming.
Must-see spots:
Figure Eight Pools (check tides before visiting)
Wattamolla Lagoon
Garie Beach
Wedding Cake Rock
Travel Tip: Bring water, snacks, and good walking shoes. Reception can be patchy, so download maps before you go.
Hunter Valley Wine Region
Got a couple of days free? Hire a car and head north to the Hunter Valley, just under three hours from Sydney. It’s one of Australia’s top wine destinations and a fantastic option for couples or groups.
Recommended stops:
Wine tastings at boutique vineyards
Cheese and chocolate shops
Hot air balloon rides for a magical view of the valley
Travel Tip: Book accommodation in advance during busy seasons and always have a designated driver if wine tasting is on the cards.
Tips for Exploring Sydney by Car
Tolls and e-Tags: Sydney has toll roads, so make sure your hire car comes with an e-Tag (YesDrive vehicles do!).
Parking Apps: Download apps like Parkopedia or Wilson Parking to help find the best spots.
Traffic: Try to avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–6:30 PM) when heading in or out of the city.
Navigation: While GPS is great, sometimes old-school printed maps or offline downloads can save the day when mobile reception drops.
Why Choose YesDrive for Your Car Hire?
Whether you’re exploring Sydney’s vibrant beaches or heading off on a longer road trip to the Blue Mountains or Hobart’s surrounding wilderness, YesDrive offers the flexibility, reliability, and comfort you need.
Here’s what sets YesDrive apart:
Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
Convenient pick-up locations in Sydney and Hobart
A wide range of vehicles – from compact cars to SUVs and family vans
Friendly, local customer service to help you plan your trip
Optional extras like child seats, GPS units, and extra driver options
With YesDrive, you’re in the driver’s seat – literally and figuratively – to make the most of your time exploring Australia’s most iconic city and beyond.
Ready to Explore Sydney in Comfort?
Whether it’s a day trip to the beach, a weekend in wine country, or a scenic drive through bushland and coastlines, a YesDrive hire car gives you the freedom to explore Sydney your way. Book now and hit the road with confidence and convenience.
