Cheap entertainment

Backpackers and students are entitled to great deals in Sydney and beyond, so be sure to carry and flash your ISIC, YHA or student card wherever possible to see if you are eligible for concession rates.

A visit to Mosman’s Taronga Zoo entitles YHA card holders to a discount. Sydney Aquarium also offers travellers a good deal, with YHA or student card holders entitled to a discount off the normal entry price.

If you plan on spending a day exploring Sydney, it is well worth buying a DayTripper bus/rail/ferry ticket. They can be used within the Sydney suburban area until 4am. A ferry ride is a must-do while in Sydney, and this pass will allow you to hop on a ferry to Manly and enjoy a day in Sydney’s northern beaches.

You could also consider a great free walking tour around Sydney, run by Greg Peek of Peek Tours.  He offers this tour on a 'commission only' basis.  If you like the tour, you pay him a gratuity or tip at the end of the tour.

Sydney’s gorgeous natural environment is perfect for long leisurely walks. The walk from Bondi beach to Coogee beach takes around two hours and follows the coastline, clifftops, and the swim and surf beaches of Tamarama and Bronte. You’ll also pass the popular snorkelling spots at Clovelly and Gordons Bay. Another option is the walk around Watsons Bay from the historical Macquarie Lighthouse to Nielson Park, Vaucluse. This walk features old fishing cottages, amazing homes, breathtaking views, and white sandy harbour beaches. Or, take a ferry to explore Sydney’s northern reaches on the ten kilometre Manly Beach to Spit Bridge Walk. You can get more information on these and other walks at the Visitors Information Centre at The Rocks.

You’ll be glad to know that it’s even possible to explore Sydney’s landmarks on a budget. Ride to the top of Sydney Tower, check out the observation deck and experience ‘OzTrek’, a simulated ride introducing you to Australia’s highlights. If you have a student card, it’s much cheaper.

You can take a tour of the famed Sydney Opera House, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout is a great alternative to climbing the harbour bridge if you don’t have the funds or the nerves. Or you can relax and perhaps have a picnic in the beautiful Botanic Gardens located next to the Opera house.

Afterdark

When checking out clubs and pubs, try to get there before 10pm to avoid the dreaded ‘cover charge’. Saturday night is the most expensive night to hit the town, as lots of places charge ‘cover charge’. However, Wednesday - Friday and even Sunday nights are all great nights to be out in Sydney, so if you can’t afford a Saturday, there is no need to become a hermit.

If comedy is your thing, or maybe its your first time, then look no further than 'Comedy in the Raw', hosting regular nights at the Star Bar in Haymarket, but also check out the guy in the wig for more details.

Also try entertaining yourself for less than $20 in Sydney