Sydney’s lively food scene isn’t just about its famous cafés and restaurants; it’s also about how and where you enjoy your midday meal. Whether you’re after a quick bite with a view or a full-day adventure with a gourmet lunch included, Sydney has plenty to offer. I’ve picked out the best lunch experiences based on reviews, unique features, and value for money. For example, the Blue Mountain: Small-Group Tour with Lunch & Scenic World combines natural beauty with excellent food—plus, early access to Scenic World makes it a must for nature lovers. If you’re more into relaxing by the water, the Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney all-inclusive Harbour Lunch Cruise offers stunning skyline views paired with gourmet dishes. These options show how Sydney seamlessly blends outdoor activities, sightseeing, and culinary delight.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of tours, from scenic mountain outings like the Blue Mountains small group tour that combines nature, wildlife, and excellent food, to luxurious Sydney Harbour cruises such as the Harbour Unique Cruise with its gourmet barbecue and personalized experience. We also highlight whale watching cruises, winery tours, and luxury sailing trips, each offering a different way to enjoy Sydney’s natural beauty and culinary scene. No matter your preference, this guide will help you pick the perfect midday outing.
1. Blue Mountain: Small-Group Tour with Lunch & Scenic World
This highly-rated tour offers all the highlights of the Blue Mountains with a delicious, chef-prepared lunch. For just $137 per person, you’re whisked away on a 10-hour journey with a small group, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour includes early entry to Scenic World, where you can ride the Skyway, Cableway, and Railway through lush rainforests, along with visits to the iconic Three Sisters and other scenic viewpoints. The lunch caters to vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free diets, making it flexible for many dietary needs. After exploring nature, you’ll visit Featherdale or Sydney Zoo to see kangaroos and koalas, then cruise back under the Harbour Bridge.
What makes this tour stand out is its all-inclusive approach, combining natural wonders, wildlife, and gourmet food in one day. Rated 4.8 based on over 3,000 reviews, it’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience without sacrificing comfort or quality. The deluxe WiFi mini coach adds a touch of luxury, and early access to Scenic World means avoiding crowds. The value is excellent, considering the transport, park fees, and meals included.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers wanting a full day of nature, wildlife, and scenery, all paired with a flexible, high-quality lunch.
2. From Sydney: Blue Mountains Tour with Waterfall Walk & Lunch
This 10.5-hour small-group tour is a favorite for its combination of natural beauty and active exploration. For only $79 per person, you get roundtrip transport from Sydney and the chance to walk behind waterfalls at Wentworth Falls—a unique experience not many tours offer. You’ll also see the Three Sisters and other breathtaking viewpoints. The highlight is a tasty picnic lunch made locally, giving you a true taste of regional flavors.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on nature and light activity—ideal for those who enjoy bushwalking and scenic viewpoints. Rated 4.8 with over 1,800 reviews, travelers appreciate the convenience and relaxed pace. The waterfall walk is roughly 90 minutes and involves some uneven terrain, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The tour’s price includes all transportation, the waterfall walk, and a fresh picnic lunch, making it a good value.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a balance of sightseeing and active adventure with a quality outdoor lunch.
3. Blue Mountains Small Group Tour with Waterfall Walk & Fresh Lunch
At number 3, this 5-star rated tour offers an intimate, active encounter with the Blue Mountains’ natural attractions. For only $81.36, you gain access to the UNESCO-listed Blue Mountains National Park, with stops at Echo Point, Jamison Valley, and Wentworth Falls. The tour includes a scenic bushwalk, a swim opportunity, and a picnic lunch with Australian snacks. It’s designed for moderately fit adults who enjoy physical activity with scenic rewards.
Rated a perfect 5.0 by over 500 reviewers, travelers praise the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guide. The waterfall descent requires reasonable fitness and a head for heights, so it’s not for everyone. The inclusion of all park fees, a picnic lunch, and transport makes this an excellent value for those looking for an active, nature-focused day.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for active travelers who want to combine scenic views, bushwalking, and a genuine picnic experience.
4. Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney all-inclusive Harbour Lunch Cruise
For around $105, this 2-hour cruise offers a luxurious way to see Sydney’s iconic harbor. Departing from Darling Harbour, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and skyline, all while tucking into a gourmet à la carte lunch featuring regional and Australian favorites. The vessel’s glass windows and outdoor decks give plenty of photo opportunities, and the included drinks—local beers and wines—enhance the experience.
Rated 5.0 with over 250 reviews, this cruise offers exceptional value for its all-inclusive nature. The emphasis is on comfort and scenery, making it perfect for those who want to relax and indulge. The lunch menu includes dishes like Hunter Valley beef and fresh seafood, satisfying even discerning palates.
Bottom Line: A stylish, relaxing way to enjoy Sydney’s harbor with a delicious lunch and unbeatable views.
5. Small Group Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin & Choc ex Sydney
This 11-12 hour tour costs $152.55 and is tailored for wine and spirits lovers. It’s a small-group experience visiting three wineries and a distillery, with guided tastings of local wines, cheeses, chocolates, gins, and vodkas. The day includes a scenic, relaxed lunch with wine, craft beer, or cider in the Valley, making it perfect for those who want to combine tasting with sightseeing.
Rated 5.0 based on 254 reviews, travelers highlight the expert guide and the variety of tastings. The trip is well-paced, with behind-the-scenes visits and local insights. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive food and drink adventure outside Sydney, though it’s a long day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for connoisseurs eager to explore Hunter Valley’s top producers with a relaxed, flavorful lunch.
6. Sydney: Harbour Cruise with Buffet Lunch
This 135-minute buffet lunch cruise for just $49 offers a quick, scenic break on Sydney Harbour. As you relax on deck, enjoy views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and other landmarks. The buffet features a variety of hot and cold dishes, with enough options to satisfy most appetites.
Rated 4.6 with over 700 reviews, it’s a solid choice for a short, scenic meal on the water. The live commentary provides insight into Sydney’s landmarks, making it a good choice for visitors short on time but wanting a taste of the harbor’s beauty.
Bottom Line: An efficient, affordable way to combine sightseeing and lunch in a relaxed setting.
7. Sydney Harbour Unique Cruise Including Lunch
Rated 5.0, this luxury small-group cruise offers a 4-hour journey on Sydney Harbour with a gourmet barbecue lunch. Boarding at Circular Quay, you’ll see famous landmarks, then visit secluded beaches and bays only known to locals. Kayaks are available for active guests, and the lunch includes beer and wine.
Guests rave about the personalized experience, with some tours ending with private swims. The tour is limited to 14 people, making it perfect for those seeking exclusivity. The focus on hidden spots and luxury dining makes this a memorable splurge.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving an intimate, high-end experience with diverse activities and great food.
8. Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise Including Lunch or Breakfast
This 4-hour whale-watching cruise costs about $70. It’s a fantastic pick for marine life lovers, combining a breakfast or lunch onboard with the chance to see humpback and southern right whales from May to November. The cruise navigates past Sydney Heads into the Pacific Ocean, with a naturalist onboard providing interesting facts.
Rated 4.5, travelers appreciate the whale sightings and the onboard meals. The tour is especially appealing in whale migration season, making it a unique mix of wildlife and scenery.
Bottom Line: A worthwhile experience for nature lovers who want to combine marine wildlife with a meal on the water.
9. From Sydney: Full-Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour & Lunch
This 11-hour tour priced at $145 delivers a full day of wine tasting, including visits to three wineries with behind-the-scenes production tours, tastings of Semillon, Shiraz, and more, plus a relaxing lunch in the Valley. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive taste of Hunter Valley’s best.
Rated 4.7 with 449 reviews, travelers find it well-organized and informative. The guide shares local insights, making the experience more than just tasting. The tour offers excellent value, especially considering the multiple tastings and lunch included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers seeking an educational, all-day experience in one of Australia’s top wine regions.
10. Luxury Sailing Cruise on Sydney Harbour with Lunch
This 5-hour cruise on a luxury yacht costs $237.30 per person. You’ll sail past Sydney Harbour landmarks including Mrs. Macquaries Chair and Watsons Bay, with options to swim, snorkel, or relax in a secluded bay. Lunch features Australian wine and fresh seafood, served onboard.
Rated 5.0, travelers love the personalized service and the opportunity to drive the boat. It’s perfect for those seeking a high-end, intimate experience with active options.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers looking for a luxurious, active day on the water with gourmet dining.
11. Sydney: 2-Course All Inclusive Lunch Harbour Cruise
For $102, this 2-hour cruise combines a premium 2-course lunch with stunning views of the harbor. You’ll see Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo from the water, with the meal featuring seasonal ingredients and regional wines. It’s a balanced option for those wanting a quality meal and quick sightseeing.
Rated 4.9, the reviews mention delicious food and amazing views, making it a solid choice for a short, satisfying experience.
Bottom Line: A comfortable, well-reviewed option for a mid-length lunch cruise with great scenery.
12. Sydney Harbour Discovery Cruise Including Lunch
Rated 4.5, this 2-hour 15-minute cruise offers a buffet lunch with views of the Sydney Opera House, hidden beaches, and sandstone cliffs. The onboard commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing. It’s suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with a delicious meal.
This tour’s strength lies in its hidden gem sights and relaxed pace, with a focus on local scenery and informative narration.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers wanting a scenic, informative ride with a tasty buffet.
13. Sydney: Harbour View Lunch Cruise from Darling Harbour
This 1.5 to 3-hour cruise offers a 2- or 3-course lunch with premium service. Cruising from Darling Harbour, you’ll see the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and more. The upgraded window-seat option guarantees prime views.
Rated 4.5, travelers mention beautiful food and scenery, making this a popular quick lunch choice that combines comfort and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors seeking a flexible, scenic lunch cruise with the option for a guaranteed window seat.
How to Choose Your Sydney Lunch Experience
Choosing the right lunch experience depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and interests. For a full day of outdoor activity and nature, opt for Blue Mountain: Small-Group Tour with Lunch & Scenic World. If a relaxing cruise with gourmet food appeals, consider Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney. Want to see whales? The Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise is your pick, especially during migration season. For wine lovers, the Hunter Valley wine and spirits tours offer a day of tastings paired with a scenic lunch.
Practical tips include booking early in peak seasons and considering your physical activity level—some tours involve walking or swimming, while others are more relaxed. Also, check meal options if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Sydney provides a wealth of lunch experiences that combine stunning scenery, engaging activities, and delicious food. Whether you prefer a mountain adventure, a luxury harbor cruise, or a wine-tasting day, there’s something suited to your style and budget. For nature lovers, the Blue Mountain tours stand out for their comprehensive approach, while those wanting a quick scenic meal should consider a harbor cruise like the Sydney Harbour View Lunch Cruise.
Remember, booking early often secures better times and prices, especially in high season. No matter your choice, these lunch experiences will enrich your Sydney visit with memorable sights, flavors, and stories—so pick what suits your style and go enjoy it.