The capital of New South Wales, and home to more than four million people, Sydney is one of the most cosmopolitan cities on earth. This relatively young city is endowed with a brash, infectious optimism and sun-tanned residents who are as comfortable on surfboards as they are at the ballet. From the golden sands and sparkling water of Bondi Beach to the instantly recognizable curves of the Sydney Opera House, this city is a photographer’s dream.Start your Harbour City adventure with a Skywalk at Sydney Tower. Then, explore the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens and the majestic sails of the Sydney Opera House. Just a short stroll away is Sydney’s outdoor answer to New York's Grand Central Station, Circular Quay. From this bustling transport hub, jump aboard a famous Sydney ferry to just about anywhere in Sydney Harbour. Nearby Darling Harbour has the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and the Australian National Maritime Museum. Follow the restaurant- and park-lined waterfront to The Rocks where you’ll almost feel the ghosts of the city’s convict and seafaring past. Thrill-seekers can ride the Wild Mouse roller coaster at Luna Park. If heights don’t phase you, stretch your legs on the Sydney Harbour Bridge BridgeClimb for a truly breath-taking experience. Say “G’day” to kangaroos, koalas and platypus at Taronga Zoo. Be sure to catch the free-flight bird show set against the spectacular backdrop of the harbor. A short walk from downtown, you’ll find village-like suburbs such as Paddington, Surry Hills and Newtown. These charming neighborhoods are studded with quirky cafés, boutiques and galleries. Darlinghurst and Potts Point are top spots for foodies. Major shopping destinations include Bondi Junction and a sprawling Westfield mall in the heart of downtown. Sydney is a paradise for nature-lovers the bush and the beaches are never far away. See the harbor’s rugged coastline on the 30-minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, one of the city’s most beautiful beaches. Getting around Sydney is simple, with an excellent network of trains, buses and ferries. The climate is temperate, with hot summers and pleasantly cool winters, making the Harbour City an ideal Australian destination year-round.
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Sydney
Sydney Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Sydney
Sydney Central Business District
Known for its captivating waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Sydney Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Circular Quay and Sydney Opera House, and jump on the metro at Martin Place Station or St. James Station to see more of the city.
Darling Harbour
Known for its captivating waterfront views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Darling Harbour. Check out top attractions like Circular Quay and Star Casino, and jump on the metro at Pyrmont Bay Light Rail Station or The Star Station to see more of the city.
Sydney Olympic Park
Unique features of Sydney Olympic Park include the theaters and live music. Make a stop by Circular Quay or Accor Stadium while you're exploring the area.
Parramatta
Parramatta is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Circular Quay or Accor Stadium.
Manly
A noteworthy feature of Manly is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Circular Quay and Manly Beach.
The Rocks
A noteworthy feature of The Rocks is its captivating waterfront views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Circular Quay and Overseas Passenger Terminal.
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Reviewed on Sep 18, 2023
Reviewed on Sep 11, 2023
Getting around Sydney
In Sydney itself, you can get around very easily on the public transportation network, which covers all the most important areas of the city. Buy yourself a reloadable Opal card to pay for all your trips on the bus, train, ferry and light rail networks. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Rent a car to explore the beautiful national parks that lie beyond the city boundaries. Visit the Transport for NSW (TfNSW) website. Browse Sydney rental cars.
Best time to visit
Aim to visit Sydney in shoulder season for the best prices and the most pleasant weather. Shoulder season is in spring, which is between September and November in Australia, and in fall, which is between March and May. You are also likely to find that the city’s most popular attractions are less busy at these times of year than they are in the far hotter summer months of December to February.
Popular places to visit
Circular Quay
Flanked by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney’s transportation hub is one of the prettiest terminals in the world.
Sydney Opera House
One of the world’s most famous buildings is surprisingly accessible; take in a show or just take a stroll to admire this astonishing building.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Stroll from end-to-end or climb to the top; either way, Sydney’s “Coat Hanger” serves up memories to last a lifetime.
Taronga Zoo
This world-renowned zoo is cherished for its Sydney Harbour views and its residents.
Manly Beach
Take one of Sydney's most popular ferry rides to discover calm coves and surf beaches, restaurants, bars, shopping and spectacular views.
Star Casino
Dining, gambling, pampering, cultural shows and clubbing are on the menu in this entertainment venue by Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
Reviews of Sydney
5/5 - Excellent
I have been to Sydney before and really enjoyed it. But, unfortunately, I didn't actually make it this time due to the pandemic.
5/5 - Excellent
Great place and I’ll definitely go back one day.
5/5 - Excellent
Great, vibrant city.
5/5 - Excellent
Sydney is a beautiful friendly town. The downtown area is easily accessible on foot.
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city, felt very safe walking around.
5/5 - Excellent
We were only there for a day, waiting to fly home from our cruise. But I definitely recommend Darling Harbour. And I'd love to go back and explore more of Sydney.
Read travel guides and advice on visiting Sydney
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