The Iglu Guide | Blog
Cool things to do in Sydney for students
Sydney is an incredible city to explore while studying, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, social hangouts, and foodie hotspots. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, an exciting night out, or a budget-friendly activity, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the coolest things to do in Sydney, all within easy access from your Iglu home in Sydney.
Outdoor and active adventures
Beaches and coastal walks
Sydney boasts some of Australia’s most iconic beaches, and nothing compares to spending a day by the sea. Bondi Beach is the city’s most famous stretch of sand, known for its vibrant energy, golden shoreline, and world-class surf. If you’re up for a scenic stroll, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a must-do. This 6 km trail follows dramatic sandstone cliffs, offering sweeping ocean views, fresh sea breezes, and plenty of picturesque spots to rest or snap a photo. For a more relaxed beach day, Coogee Beach is ideal, with its calm waters and a great selection of cafés, restaurants, and bars just moments away.
Parks and green spaces
Sometimes, a break from the city’s hustle and bustle is exactly what you need, and Sydney’s parks provide the perfect escape. Centennial Park stands out as one of the best spots to unwind, featuring vast open fields, scenic tree-lined walking and cycling paths, and even horse-riding trails for a unique experience.
If you’re looking for a quick fitness fix closer to home, grab a picnic rug, gather your friends, and take a short 7-minute stroll from Iglu Redfern to Prince Alfred Park. This hidden gem, nestled next to Central Station, boasts over 7 hectares of lush greenery, an outdoor pool, basketball courts, tennis courts, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Cycling around Sydney
Cycling is an excellent way to explore Sydney while staying active, and the city’s expanding network of bike-friendly paths makes it easier than ever to get moving. The Cooks River Cycleway offers a peaceful ride, meandering through 23 km of lush parklands and riverside trails, stretching from Strathfield to Botany Bay. For those who prefer a waterside route, the Bay Run in the Inner West is a 15 minute ride from Iglu Summer Hill and provides a picturesque 7 km loop, with plenty of charming spots to grab a coffee along the way.
Culture and entertainment
Museums and galleries
Sydney offers a perfect blend of study and creativity, with its rich cultural and artistic scene. The Art Gallery of NSW is a highlight, featuring everything from classical European works to contemporary Indigenous art.
Just a 5-minute stroll from Iglu Broadway, Iglu Central and Iglu Central Park, you’ll find the White Rabbit Gallery, a free exhibition featuring one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Chinese works. Rehung twice a year, only a fraction of the collection is on show at any one time – which means plenty of excuses to keep coming back for more.
Live music and theatre
Sydney’s live music scene thrives in venues like The Lansdowne in Chippendale, The Factory Theatre in Marrickville (easily accessible from Iglu Summer Hill and Iglu Mascot), and The Enmore Theatre in Newtown.
The Seymour Centre within the University of Sydney hosts an eclectic mix of theatre, dance, and student showcases throughout the year that continue to inspire thought, conversation and debate.
Only five minutes’ walk from Iglu Chatswood, The Concourse is Chatswood’s cultural hub and one of Sydney’s leading entertainment options. It features live arts and events and has multiple outdoor spaces, an outdoor cinema, and a resident orchestra that regularly performs at the venue.
Foodie hotspots and markets
Affordable eats & cultural precincts
Sydney is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide variety of dining experiences for every budget. Chinatown is a go-to for authentic dumplings and late-night ramen, while Newtown’s King Street is packed with everything from vegan cafés to cheap and cheerful Thai restaurants. For classic Aussie pub fare like parmas and fish and chips, head to The Rocks – Australia’s most historic cultural precinct – just a two-minute walk from Circular Quay train and light rail station.
For a taste of authentic street food, Sydney offers standout hawker-style experiences. In Chatswood, Hawker Lane serves up a vibrant mix of Asian flavours, from steaming dumplings to sizzling noodles, all in a bustling marketplace setting. Meanwhile, in Chippendale, Spice Alley brings the energy of Southeast Asian street food to life, with a laneway of open-air eateries offering bold and aromatic dishes. No matter which you choose, you’ll find endless options to explore.
Markets and grocery bargains
For fresh produce and artisanal goods, visit the Carriageworks Farmers Market every Saturday morning, just a short 10-minute walk from Iglu Redfern. Or explore Paddy’s Market near Chinatown, a buzzing spot where you can eat, drink, and shop while discovering new tastes and cultural experiences.
Student-friendly social spots
Cafés & study-friendly spaces
Sydney’s café culture is strong, and there’s no shortage of great places to study or catch up with friends. Edition Coffee Roasters in Haymarket is known for its sleek interior and Japanese-Nordic inspired menu, while Reuben Hills in Surry Hills is a local favourite for its quality coffee and all-day brunch.
Bars & social hangouts
For budget-friendly nightlife, The Soda Factory in Surry Hills has cheap drinks, themed nights, and live music, while Newtown’s Courthouse Hotel is a laid-back classic with a big beer garden. If you’re after something more low-key, The Temperance Society (4 minutes walk from Iglu Summer Hill) offers a great selection of wines and craft beers in a cosy setting.
Getting around Sydney
Sydney’s public transport system makes it easy to explore the city from any Iglu property. The Sydney Metro offers fast connections from Chatswood to the city, and the train network links Mascot, Redfern, and Summer Hill to key destinations. Buses and light rail services provide convenient options for getting to beaches, parks, and entertainment hubs. With an Opal card or contactless payment, students can take advantage of cheaper off-peak fares, making it even more budget-friendly to get around.
