Sydney tours

Things to do in Sydney

Sydney, Nova Scotia, offers a unique blend of maritime culture and natural beauty, where the Atlantic's presence is felt in every corner. As you wander through this coastal town, the sound of fiddles and the rhythmic pulse of the ocean create an atmosphere that's hard to ignore. Sydney tours provide a glimpse into a world where tradition and the sea intertwine. With a local guide, you can explore the iconic Cabot Trail, taking in the rugged landscapes that have shaped the region's character. If culinary experiences are your preference, indulge in a food and wine tour that highlights the distinct flavours of Cape Breton's offerings. Each moment spent here uncovers another layer of history and personal connection. Private tours in Sydney allow you to bypass the usual tourist paths, offering genuine interactions and experiences that linger long after you've left. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Sydney. Explore Sydney your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Sydney tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Sydney for every interest, including: Layover tours: Your guide can meet you at the airport or cruise pier for a quick photo at the Big Fiddle, a stroll along the harbour boardwalk, and time for a tasting at Breton Brewing Co. or a short walk on the Louisbourg Lighthouse Trail if the clock allows. Nature and Wildlife tours: Watch for bald eagles along the Bras d’Or Lake, walk coastal headlands on the Louisbourg Lighthouse Trail, or take a seasonal boat trip from Big Bras d’Or to the Bird Islands to see puffins, cormorants, and seals. City highlights tours: Step inside Cossit House and Jost House Museum, visit St. Patrick’s Church Museum, wander Wentworth Park, and pause for chowder or oatcakes at a favourite local spot while your guide links the waterfront to Sydney’s seafaring past. Getting around: The downtown waterfront and nearby museums are walkable, but public transit is limited and many nature sites require a drive; you can book chauffeured tours with private transportation, or ask your local guide to include a vehicle. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Sydney inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Take a private walking tour to explore Sydney, and while you're at it, consider adding a few popular neighborhoods to your itinerary with a local guide. There's no better way to get to know a neighborhood than with someone who knows it inside out. - Downtown Sydney: Perfect for families and multi-generational groups, this area offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The waterfront boardwalk is great for a relaxing stroll with scenic views. - Whitney Pier: Known for its diverse cultural heritage, Whitney Pier is ideal for cultural tourists. You can learn about the community's history, explore local museums, and enjoy some traditional cuisine. - North End: For those interested in history and architecture, the North End offers beautiful historical buildings and a glimpse into Sydney's past. It's a quiet area perfect for leisurely walks and exploration. Day trip ideas from Sydney From Sydney, you can reach coastal lookouts, historic towns, and quiet trails on easy day trips, and your tour can keep the pace relaxed while still covering a lot of ground. - Louisbourg: Wander the harbour, walk the lighthouse trail for wave-battered cliffs, and view the Fortress of Louisbourg from town; history fans get rich stories, and seafood lovers can add a simple meal by the water, with your tour shaping the route to the tide and wind. - Baddeck and Bras d’Or Lake: A pretty village with a boardwalk and sailing culture; visit the Alexander Graham Bell site if you like, then add Uisge Ban Falls for a short forest hike, and your tour can split time between science, views, and an easy trail. - Cabot Trail east loop: Big ocean vistas, rocky headlands, and pullouts made for photos; stop at coastal lookouts near Ingonish and try the Middle Head trail for a quick hike, and your tour can link the best viewpoints without long drives. - Glace Bay: Learn mining heritage at the museum, see the Marconi historic site above the surf, and explore working shoreline towns; good for social history and coastal photography, with your tour tuning stops to weather and interest. - Mira River and beaches: Calm water, low bridges, and sandy coves at Mira Gut and Marion Bridge; bring a picnic, watch for eagles, and, if conditions are right, add a short paddle, and your tour can keep it simple and scenic. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Sydney most travellers miss.