Martin Place Sydney
Sydney's bustling civic heart, blending modern architecture, vibrant dining, and lively seasonal events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Christmas markets buzz
Martin Place Sydney
Best Time
Christmas markets buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sydney's bustling civic heart, blending modern architecture, vibrant dining, and lively seasonal events.
"The new Martin Place Metro station is a work of art, offering spaciousness and seamless connections."
🎯 Christmas Market Treats
Don't miss the creme brulee churros at Mr. Spanish Churro! They sell out fast.
🚇 Metro Navigation
Look up! Colored ceiling batons indicate direction in the new Martin Place Metro.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Martin Place Christmas Markets
Martin Place
Festive stalls offering unique gifts and delicious treats, especially churros!
Loulou Sydney
Martin Place
Chic French-inspired bistro perfect for a corporate lunch or elegant meal.
Five Guys Sydney
39 Martin Place
Popular American burger joint known for customizable burgers and fries.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Martin Place
Seasonal Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Christmas Market Treats
Don't miss the creme brulee churros at Mr. Spanish Churro! They sell out fast. +1
🚇 Metro Navigation
Look up! Colored ceiling batons indicate direction in the new Martin Place Metro.
💰 Budget Lunch Options
Try Ko-V Korean ($14) or Bun Me ($9) for affordable lunches near Martin Place.
🍽️ Corporate Lunch Spot
Loulou offers a 3-course lunch set menu for $55, great value for the area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Christmas Market Treats
Don't miss the creme brulee churros at Mr. Spanish Churro! They sell out fast. +1
🚇 Metro Navigation
Look up! Colored ceiling batons indicate direction in the new Martin Place Metro.
💰 Budget Lunch Options
Try Ko-V Korean ($14) or Bun Me ($9) for affordable lunches near Martin Place.
🍽️ Corporate Lunch Spot
Loulou offers a 3-course lunch set menu for $55, great value for the area.
🍔 Five Guys Must-Tries
Buffalo fries and Elvis shake are highly recommended at the new Five Guys.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Martin Place is a dynamic urban center, praised for its modern architecture, especially the new Metro station, and its vibrant seasonal events like the Christmas markets. While it can be very busy during weekdays, visitors appreciate the diverse dining options, from quick bites to upscale bistros, and the excellent public transport links.
"It is a picturesque pedestrian mall in the Sydney central business district, New South Wales, Australia. On one side you have the present General Post Office Building which is now a 5 star hotel. This heritage-listed building was constructed in stages from 1866 to 1891. Above the centre of the 100-metre (330 ft) Martin Place facade is the clocktower. This building was the headquarters of the NSW postal system until 1996, when it was sold and refurbished. The mall is wide and always busy. Very popular place, lots of tourists and locals. Easy terrain, lot of easy walking. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Free entry. Parking is hard to find. Great place for photography. Toilets available. Cafes and restaurants available."
s vivekananda
"Martin Place is the city’s spine done right. It runs like a stone canyon between grand old sandstone facades and glass towers, so you get that mix of history and momentum in one stroll. Office crowds stream past in the morning, then the pace loosens at lunch when buskers set up, suits swap jackets for sunglasses and every bench seems to turn into a tiny meeting room. The Cenotaph sits quietly and draws you in for a moment of respect, while the old GPO and clock tower still give the whole strip a sense of occasion. In December the big Christmas tree flips the space into a nightly hangout, but even on a regular weekday there is usually something happening.
Food options are better than you might expect in the heart of the financial district. There are hole-in-the-wall espresso bars that understand the morning rush, bakeries with proper pastries, and a spread of quick lunch spots tucked into the side lanes if you want to sit somewhere less windy. The stone underfoot stays surprisingly clean and there is enough seating to pause with a sandwich and watch the swirl without feeling in the way. Photographers get nice angles in late afternoon when the light bounces off the facades, and on rainy days the reflections turn every puddle into a small cityscape.
Getting here is easy. It sits between Wynyard and St James with light rail close by, so you can cut through on the way to the Domain or down to Circular Quay. Shade can be patchy at midday and the corridor can funnel a breeze, so bring sunnies and a light layer if you plan to linger. For a quick coffee, a lunchtime wander or a five minute people watch, Martin Place rarely disappoints."
Hoang Giap
"It's very nice to visit. You have the CommBank, fountains and a nice architectural landscape. But be aware if you are riding a bike as it doesn't have ramps at one point."
Dypi Nestor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Martin Place is easily accessible via the new Martin Place Metro Station, offering seamless connections across Sydney. It's also well-served by numerous bus routes and is a pleasant walk from other CBD train stations like Wynyard and Town Hall. +1
Yes, Martin Place is a central landmark in Sydney's CBD. The new Metro station has helpful ceiling batons to guide you, and it's a well-known destination for many businesses and events.
The Martin Place Metro Station features colored batons on the ceiling to indicate direction. While not immediately intuitive, knowing this secret can help you orient yourself.
Reports suggest the walk from the street to the platform at Martin Place Metro is relatively short and seamless, with good integration to T4 platforms.
While public transport is highly recommended, there are several paid parking stations in the vicinity of Martin Place, including those within the MLC Centre and surrounding buildings. However, parking in the CBD can be expensive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Martin Place itself is a public space and does not require tickets for general access. However, specific events or venues within Martin Place, like restaurants or markets, may have their own entry requirements or costs.
As a public square, Martin Place is accessible at all times. However, individual businesses and seasonal markets, such as the Christmas markets, will have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to evening.
Entry to the Martin Place Christmas Markets is generally free. You only pay for any food, drinks, or goods you purchase from the various stalls.
Yes, restaurants like Loulou Sydney in Martin Place accept bookings. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular lunch or dinner times.
There is no admission fee to enter the Five Guys restaurant at 39 Martin Place. You pay for the food and drinks you order.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Martin Place offers a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and events. You can enjoy meals at bistros like Loulou, grab burgers at Five Guys, explore seasonal markets, or simply soak in the city atmosphere. 
For treats, the creme brulee churros are a must-try at the Christmas markets. Loulou offers a sophisticated 3-course lunch, and Five Guys serves up classic burgers. For budget-friendly options, food courts nearby offer good value. +2
Yes, Martin Place offers a blend of modern architecture and public art, making it a visually interesting spot for photography, especially during events like the Christmas markets.
Martin Place is a known public gathering space and has historically been a site for protests and demonstrations. Visitors should be aware of potential public gatherings.
During weekdays, Martin Place has a busy corporate atmosphere. Evenings and weekends can be more relaxed, especially during festive periods with markets and events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For budget-friendly lunches, consider the food court under Woolworths at Town Hall for cheap Asian takeaway, Ko-V Korean at 25 Martin Place for a $14 three-choice plate, or Bun Me for a $9 chicken rice bowl via EatClub. Deli Ziosa in the MLC Centre also offers filling salads.
The creme brulee churros from Mr. Spanish Churro are a standout, but they are known to sell out quickly. Other stalls offer a variety of festive treats. +1
While specific pricing isn't detailed in the provided content, one user mentioned an almond croissant costing $11.70 in Melbourne, suggesting Sydney prices might be similar.
Loulou Sydney is highlighted as a perfect new corporate lunch spot, offering a 3-course set menu for $55, which is considered a great deal.
The buffalo fries and the Elvis shake are specifically recommended as must-try items at the new Five Guys location.
📸 📸 Photography
Martin Place itself, with its modern architecture and public art, offers good photo opportunities. The Christmas markets add a festive and colorful backdrop.
Yes, the Martin Place Metro Station is described as a 'work of art' and is visually impressive, making it a suitable location for photography.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted in public spaces like Martin Place. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of private property and individuals.
For a mix of good lighting and fewer crowds, consider early mornings or weekends. During the Christmas markets, evenings with the festive lights can also be very photogenic.
The architectural design of the new Metro station, with its open spaces and ceiling features, offers unique photographic perspectives. Seasonal events like the Christmas markets also provide distinct visual elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider timing your visit to avoid peak weekday lunch crowds. Weekends or evenings during the Christmas markets offer a more relaxed environment. Pack comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved in exploring the area and nearby attractions.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring the public spaces like Martin Place itself is free. During the Christmas markets, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without spending money, though tempting treats are readily available.
🧑💻 Business Professionals
The convenience of the Martin Place Metro Station ensures quick and easy commutes for those working in the surrounding buildings. During weekdays, the area is bustling with activity, reflecting its status as a major business hub. While lunchtimes can be crowded, the efficiency of the Metro and the availability of quick dining options help professionals maximize their time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Martin Place Metro Experience
While the openness is appreciated, some users feel the vast empty spaces could benefit from more seating or decorative elements.
Navigating the station is generally straightforward once you understand the directional cues. The time taken from street level to the platform is reported to be relatively short, contributing to an efficient transit experience.
Culinary Delights in Martin Place
For a more refined experience, Loulou Sydney has opened in Martin Place, positioning itself as an ideal spot for corporate lunches. Their 3-course set menu at $55 is considered excellent value.
If you're craving burgers, the new Five Guys location at 39 Martin Place is a popular choice, with buffalo fries and the Elvis shake being standout items. Budget-conscious diners can find good options in nearby food courts. The food court under Woolworths at Town Hall offers cheap Asian takeaway, while 25 Martin Place hosts Ko-V Korean with a $14 three-choice plate. Bun Me provides a $9 chicken rice bowl via EatClub, and Deli Ziosa in the MLC Centre offers substantial salads for around $11.
Seasonal Events and Public Gatherings
As a prominent public square, Martin Place has also been a site for various demonstrations and public actions. For instance, a Women's Action for Palestine event was scheduled there, highlighting its role as a space for community expression and advocacy.
Visitors should be aware that public gatherings can occur, influencing the atmosphere and accessibility of the area on certain days. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit