Guests enjoying drinks at a hidden Sydney small bar on the Desperately Seeking Sydney's Small Bars tour

    Small-group Sydney walking tours · Six guests, max

    ★ Most Popular Tour

    Desperately Seeking Sydney's Small Bars

    Up to 30 hidden small bars and speakeasies in two city blocks, with a guide who knows every unmarked door.

    A$89 per person3 Hours · 18+ only

    4.94★
    from 9,500+ guests
    6
    guests max, join-in tours
    25+ yrs
    guiding Sydney

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    Recent ★★★★★ Reviews

    In our guests' own words

    Desperately Seeking Sydney's Small Bars

    "We had such a great time on our hidden bar tour with John! He was incredibly knowledgeable, entertaining and friendly, and was great company throughout the night. He took us to some fantastic hidden bars that we never would have found on our own and also gave us plenty of recommendations for other places to visit afterwards. John made the whole experience fun and relaxed, and it felt more like exploring Sydney's bar scene with a knowledgeable local than being on a formal tour. We would definitely recommend this tour — and John — to anyone wanting a fun night out in Sydney!"

    Cathy, Australia

    GetYourGuide · September 2026

    Desperately Seeking Sydney's Small Bars

    "John is super friendly and knows Sydney's little hidden bars. There's no doubt in my mind that we wouldn't have found these magical little places without him. And what's more, he listens because if you have a favourite drink, he will find the bar with the largest collection. Don't be surprised if he takes you to an expensive barber or tailor... surprise"

    Françoise, Colombes, France

    Airbnb · August 2026

    Sequinned Steps – LGBTQI+ Sydney Tour

    "This walking tour blends in Sydney history as well as lgbtqia plus history in the city. Since John is someone born & raised in Sydney it adds a native perspective to the storytelling. Ultimately you do go to the LGBTQiA area and see how different sights relate to that history. Even though I was the only person, I enjoyed the tour because I got to learn some things that I wouldn't have noticed if I walked on my own. If you're looking for a walking tour that doesn't feel typical, take this tour."

    Angelika, New York, United States

    Airbnb · August 2026

    Desperately Seeking Sydney's Small Bars

    "Great opportunity to see multiple small characterful bars in a small area. Tasty food also available to purchase. Spirits and cocktails especially well catered for."

    Luke & Lucy, Auckland, New Zealand

    Airbnb · July 2026

    John Pastor, founder and guide at 24 Hours In Sydney

    Who's Actually Guiding

    Born and raised on Sydney's doorstep, John has spent over 25 years uncovering the hidden bars and stories most locals never find, let alone visitors. Every tour is capped at 6 guests, guided by John or his small team, with a healthy dose of Sydney humour thrown in.

    Read John's Story

    What A Big Bus Tour Won't Tell You

    This is the version of Sydney most visitors get sold.

    Forty seats to fill

    A coach tour books every seat it can sell. You get whoever else paid that day, and a driver reading a script over a crackly headset.

    A fixed five minutes

    The schedule doesn't care that you found a laneway worth lingering in. It moves on because the itinerary says so.

    A guide you'll never see again

    Rostered, different every trip. With 24 Hours In Sydney it's John or one of his small team, capped at 6, every single time.

    The postcard version

    Same six photos everyone already has. The hidden bars and real history never make the big-bus route.

    Discover Sydney's Hidden Gems and Local Secrets

    Exclusive Sydney Tours & Hidden Gems

    Secret laneways, local favourites, hidden gems only insiders know. From The Rocks' cobblestone alleys to Barangaroo's indigenous heritage sites.

    Passionate Local Sydney Tour Guides

    Expert local guides who share authentic stories, fascinating history, and insider knowledge. Years of Sydney expertise.

    Small Group Experiences

    Maximum 6 people per group for personalised attention. Quality over quantity — every guest gets a truly personal experience.

    Authentic Sydney Storytelling

    Convict history in The Rocks to modern Sydney culture. Sydney heritage and cultural tours that connect you to the city's soul.

    Real Guest Testimonials

    Built on authentic guest experiences. Rated among the best things to do in Sydney by travellers from around the world.

    Before You Book

    Click "Book Now" on any tour page. You'll be taken to our secure FareHarbor booking system where you can select your date and complete payment. You'll receive a confirmation email with your meeting point details.

    All our tours are capped at 6 guests. This is deliberate — we believe small groups make for better conversations, more personalised attention, and a genuinely memorable experience.

    Your exact meeting point is revealed in your booking confirmation email. Most tours depart from central Sydney locations. We'll always confirm by email 24 hours before your tour.

    We offer a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours before your tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable but can be transferred to another date (subject to availability).

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