Whilst on your escorted tour of Australia, it will be hard to tear yourself away from exploring the stunning landscapes and vast wildlife. But if you can, we recommend you find time to hit the shops in Sydney. Shopping in Sydney is not for the faint-hearted. With alluring arcades and gorgeous designer boutiques, Sydney is the ultimate shopping haven.
It will be tempting to jump straight in and fill your suitcases with goodies to take home. However, by swotting up on the best places to shop in Sydney, you can make sure you’ll be taking home only the best. Luckily for you, we have all the insider knowledge you need on where to shop in Sydney, right here…
Personalised Tours
Venturing into unknown can be overwhelming for some, so if you want a stress-free, relaxing browse, then an organised tour is the way to go. Chic in the City offers exclusive shopping, led by an exceptional stylist, on your own chauffeur-driven shopping spree. Alternatively, you can book onto less costly tours through the trendy Newtown or be guided through the many the factory outlets stores, full of excellent bargains.
Designer Boutiques
By reputation alone, Sydney has gained the status of being Australia’s fashion capital. From Armani to Prada or Karan Millen to Zara –boutiques in Sydney truly have it all. And if it’s some of Sydney’s local designers you’re after, you can find them all over the city in places like David Jones, Myer, Queen Victoria Building, The Strand Arcade and Westfield Sydney.
Markets
If quaint and quirky is more your thing, you’ll be in your element at Sydney’s markets. At the weekend you will find The Rocks Market spread across enchanting cobblestoned streets, with over 200 stands full of local prints, homeware, jewellery, leather goods and arts and crafts. Other great shopping areas in Sydney are near Haymarket and Flemington where you will find the famous Paddy’s Market. Open from Wednesday to Sunday at Haymarket and Friday to Sunday at Flemington, it would be a shame to miss out on Sydney’s original and biggest market. Between both locations there are around 1,000 stands full of toys, music, novelty items, plants, clothing, trendy accessories and classic souvenirs – all unbelievably inexpensive.
City Centre Shopping
If you enjoy shopping with a bit of style, Sydney’s city centre will certainly cater for all your needs. Best of all, each of the city’s most glamorous shopping malls are all located within walking distance of each other. Some of our best places to shop in Sydney include:
- The Strand Arcade – despite its central location, this arcade provides a tranquil shopping experience in amongst the hustle and bustle. Some of the finest Australian designs can be found here as well as many culinary delights, such as the divine chocolates at Haigh’s.
- Queen Victoria Building (QVB) – magnificent stained glass provides a magical backdrop when shopping at the QVB. Once described as ‘the most beautiful shopping centre in the world’, there are few better places to peruse Sydney’s stores.
- Westfield Sydney – the perfect blend of shopping and dining come together at the stylish Westfield Sydney shopping mall. Plus, with such a varied selection of shops, there’s something to suit every budget.
Image by Nicki Mannix via Flickr