| Airport | SYD |
| Currency | AUD |
| Language | English |
| Flights: Kayak | Expedia | Lodging: Hotels | AirBnB |
| Get Around: Car | Train | Tour: Expedia | Viator |
| Check Weather |
Introduction: Sydney is regularly ranked among one of world’s most beautiful and live-able cities. It is also known as the Harbour city.
Key Facts: Sydney is the capital of Australian state of New South Wales, and Australia’s largest city. Direct flight from Los Angeles takes about 15 hours.
Summary: Sydney is home to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, two of the most iconic structures on this planet. It sits next to miles of ocean coastline and sandy surf beaches.
Get Around
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus: One of the most convenient ways to see the major sights of Sydney is by hopping aboard the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus. With stops at key attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Darling Harbour, these buses offer a narrated guide, providing insights into the city’s history and culture. The flexibility of the service allows you to explore at your own pace. Simply hop off at a site you find intriguing, and then hop back on when you’re ready to continue.
Public Transportation: Sydney boasts an efficient public transportation system comprising trains, buses, and ferries. The Opal card is a must-have for travelers; it’s a contactless fare collection system usable on all public transport. Just tap on and off as you board and disembark. Trains are great for getting around the city and to suburbs, while buses cover areas that aren’t accessible by train. Don’t miss out on the iconic Sydney ferries, which offer some of the best views of the harbour, especially the route from Circular Quay to Manly.
Walking: Sydney’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for those who prefer to explore on foot. Many of the city’s top attractions, like the Opera House, The Rocks, and Darling Harbour, are within walking distance of each other. Plus, walking gives you the chance to stumble upon hidden gems and enjoy the vibrant street life.
Speak
English is the dominant language in Sydney and most of Australia. The Australian accent may take a while to get familiar with.
Stay
Best area for a short stay in Sydney – The Rocks and Circular Quay offers a variety of price points within walking distance of key sites and transport
Best area for families– Darling Harbour with its family friendly dining and fabulous playground is perfect for families.
The Best area for Budget Travellers – Potts Point and Kings Cross are home to some great affordable boutique hotels.
Best areas for foodies– Surry Hills is a top choice with loads of great bars and cafes followed closely by Potts Point.
Best areas for a beach stay– Manly and Bondi are favourites for beach stays.
Taste
Circular Quay & The Rocks: A bustling hub with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Restaurants here offer everything from gourmet Australian cuisine to international dishes.
Surry Hills: Known for its hipster vibe, you’ll find a diverse range of eateries, from trendy cafes to upscale restaurants, offering a mix of global flavors.
Darling Harbour: A waterfront area packed with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Perfect for seafood lovers and those looking for a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Potts Point & Kings Cross: A blend of upscale restaurants and bohemian cafes. This area offers a diverse culinary scene, from modern Australian to Thai and Italian.
Chinatown: Located in Haymarket, this area offers a plethora of authentic Asian cuisines. From Chinese dim sum to Korean BBQ and Japanese ramen, there’s something for every palate.
Bondi Beach: This iconic beachside suburb is not just about the waves. The area is dotted with cafes, seafood joints, and modern Australian eateries, many with ocean views.
Paddington: A stylish suburb with tree-lined streets, Paddington boasts chic cafes, gourmet restaurants, and traditional Aussie pubs.
Sydney, with its multicultural vibe, offers a culinary journey around the world, all while enjoying the city’s iconic landmarks and beaches.
Visit
Sydney Opera House: An iconic symbol not just of Sydney but of Australia as a whole. You can take guided tours inside or simply admire its architectural beauty from the outside. The Circular Quay train station is just a short walk away.
The Rocks: This historic area of Sydney’s city center is full of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and museums like the Rocks Discovery Museum. It offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. The Rocks is accessible from the Circular Quay train station.
Sydney Harbour Bridge: Another of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb it with BridgeClimb Sydney. Otherwise, walking along the pedestrian pathway offers stunning views of the harbor and Opera House. The closest station is Milsons Point on the northern side or Circular Quay on the southern end.
Museum of Sydney: Located on the site of the first Government House, it provides a detailed look into Sydney’s past, from its Aboriginal origins through to the present. It’s a short walk from Circular Quay or Martin Place stations.
Royal Botanic Garden: A lush, expansive garden right on the edge of Sydney Harbour. It’s not just a place of beauty but also educational, showcasing Australia’s diverse plant life. Easily accessible from the Martin Place station or a slightly longer walk from Circular Quay.
All Around The World 