Where to stay

Visit North Shore Sydney for some of the best highlights of a city renowned for show-stopping tourist attractions. Located across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge from the city center, the North Shore is adorned with coastal landscapes and leafy parks framing upscale heritage homes. Plan trips to Taronga Zoo and Luna Park Sydney, with stops along the way to sample dining and shopping scenes.

Start your journey with the Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay Walk, with views of gardens and grand mansions along the waterfront. The Mosman suburb is home to Taronga Zoo, along with Military Road for shopping and the Mosman Art Gallery. Bask in the sun on harborside beaches, including Balmoral Beach featuring the heritage-listed, 1920s Bathers’ Pavilion. If you’re traveling with kids, stop at the playground at Cremorne Reserve.

Another trail to help you see the sights is the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. Cool down with a swim at Castle Rock Beach and discover the Grotto Point Aboriginal Engraving Site. One of Australia’s most famous stretches of white sand, Manly Beach hosts international surfing competitions and features a promenade lined with trendy restaurants.

Chatswood, one of the North Shore’s largest suburbs, has a cultural precinct that showcases fantastic street art. Shopping is big here, with Chatswood Chase and Chatswood Mall Market. Set aside time to enjoy The Concourse, an entertainment venue offering open-air cinema, live sporting events, dining options and retail shops.

Whether you walk or take a scenic boat trip on the harbor, it’s hard to put the camera down in this region. Blues Point Reserve is a park that’s a favorite of families, with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Explore the Dr Mary Booth Reserve Foreshore Walkway for views of the Sydney Opera House and the city skyline.

Fly to Sydney Airport for a drive of about 1 hour to the North Shore suburbs. Most suburbs are walkable, with taxis, buses, trains and ferries to get you around the region with ease.