Sydney Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sydney with our comprehensive tour guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sydney

Sydney is a charming coastal town located in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada. It boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions, Sydney is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.

List of Places to Visit in Sydney

Sydney has a wealth of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best places to visit during your stay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science
  • Cossit House Museum
  • Jost House Museum
  • Highland Village Museum

Natural Attractions of Sydney: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cabot Trail
  • Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • Bras d’Or Lake
  • Ben Eoin Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sydney

Sydney has some of the most spectacular hiking and biking trails in the world, offering scenic views and endless opportunities for adventure. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail
  • The Cape Breton Highlands National Park Trails
  • The Gull Cove Trail
  • The Kennington Cove Trail

Best Things to Do in Sydney: Activities and Tours

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, Sydney has plenty to offer travelers. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a whale-watching tour
  • Visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
  • Attend a Celtic music festival
  • Explore the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Week-Long Itinerary for Sydney

Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of a week in Sydney:

Day 1 Explore the Cape Breton Centre for Heritage and Science and enjoy dinner at Governor’s Pub & Eatery
Day 2 Spend the day exploring the Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Day 3 Take a whale-watching tour and visit the Cabot Trail
Day 4 Hike the Kennington Cove Trail and enjoy lunch at the Dancing Moose Cafe
Day 5 Visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site and have dinner at Flavor on the Water
Day 6 Learn about the history of Sydney at the Jost House Museum
Day 7 Take a day trip to the charming fishing village of Baddeck

Food and Drink Scene of Sydney

Sydney is a culinary mecca, offering delicious dishes that cater to all tastes. Here’s what you need to know about the food and drink scene:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster rolls
  • Seafood chowder
  • Poutine
  • Blueberry grunt

Local Beverages

  • Alexander Keith’s beer
  • Benjamin Bridge wine
  • Nova Scotia whisky
  • Ironworks gin

Where to Stay in Sydney: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sydney has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to affordable hostels and cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Cambridge Suites Hotel
  • The Holiday Inn Sydney - Waterfront
  • The Clansman Motel
  • The Chanterelle Country Inn & Cottages

What to Buy in Sydney: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sydney offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing home. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Celtic jewelry
  • Handmade quilts
  • Local craft beer
  • Maple syrup

Local Culture and Customs of Sydney

Sydney is a welcoming and friendly city where visitors are treated like family. Here are a few customs and cultural tidbits you should know:

  • It’s customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants and cafes
  • Cape Bretoners are known for their love of music and dance
  • It’s considered polite to say “thank you” and “please” when interacting with locals
  • Cape Bretoners are proud of their Scottish heritage and love to celebrate it

Best Time to Visit Sydney

The best time to visit Sydney is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, fall (September-November) is also a great time to visit, as the foliage is stunning and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sydney

To make the most of your visit to Sydney, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • Try local cuisine
  • Attend a music festival
  • Take a whale-watching tour

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip at restaurants
  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Leave trash behind when exploring nature areas
  • Drive too quickly or recklessly on winding roads

Safety and Health

Sydney is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in Sydney:

Safety in Sydney

  • Keep valuables out of sight when exploring the city
  • Lock your car doors and hotel room at night
  • Stick to well-lit, busy areas at night
  • Be aware of wildlife when exploring nature areas

Health in Sydney

  • Tap water in Sydney is safe to drink
  • Bring appropriate clothing to protect against sunburn and ticks
  • Be cautious when hiking or biking on uneven terrain
  • Consult a doctor if you have any concerns about your health while in Sydney

Getting to Sydney: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sydney is easy to get to, with several transportation options available for travelers. Here’s what you need to know about getting there:

Airports Near Sydney

  • J.A. Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport

Bus Stations Near Sydney

  • Sydney Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Rental car
  • Taxi

How to Get Around in Sydney

Sydney is a walkable city, but renting a bike or car can also be a great way to explore the area. Here are some transportation options available:

  • Public transportation
  • Taxis
  • Car rentals
  • Bike rentals

Where to Go Next from Sydney: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sydney is a great base for exploring the rest of Cape Breton Island and beyond. Here are some destinations and excursions that are worth a visit:

  • The Cabot Trail
  • The Bras d’Or Lake Scenic Drive
  • The Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
  • The charming fishing village of Baddeck

Conclusion

Sydney is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast. With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this charming coastal town. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has helped you plan the perfect trip to Sydney.

Panorama of the harbour Panorama of the harbour