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.
Sydney
Travel Guide
Visit Sydney
Sydney Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Sydney
Sydney Central Business District
Historical and commercial heart of Sydney, the CBD boasts towering skyscrapers, lively café culture, and nightlife in areas like Darling Harbour. Explore parks such as Hyde Park and cultural institutions, while enjoying easy access to public transport.
Darling Harbour
Adjacent to Sydney's city centre, Darling Harbour boasts a pedestrian precinct with attractions like the Australian National Maritime Museum and Chinese Garden of Friendship. Enjoy dining at Cockle Bay Wharf, explore Tumbalong Park, and access various transport options, including the Inner West Light Rail and ferry services.
Sydney Olympic Park
Featuring a large sports and entertainment area, commercial developments, and extensive parklands, this Greater Western Sydney suburb offers attractions like Bicentennial Park and Newington Armory. Easily accessible via Olympic Park railway line and ferry services.
Bondi Beach
A noteworthy feature of Bondi Beach is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Bondi Beach and Bondi Icebergs.
Manly
Beach-side suburb with easy ferry access, Manly offers a mix of ocean and harbor beaches, scenic cycle tracks, and a lively commercial area along The Corso. Explore historic sites like North Head Quarantine Station and enjoy outdoor dining.
Parramatta
Major CBD and suburb, Parramatta boasts lush Parramatta Park, bustling Westfield shopping center, and diverse dining options on Church Street. Easily accessible via trains, buses, and ferries.
Shangri-La Sydney
Fantastic stay. Will definitely come back.
Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
The room was excellent and all staff were very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Reviewed on Nov 16, 2025
View Sydney
An outstanding location for easy access to the trains & ferries. Awesome view from the room of the Harbour Bridge. Excellent customer service & all very clean. Bed comfortable & good size room, but bathroom exceptionally compact. Unfortunately though as we are light sleepers we were very disturbed ...
Reviewed on Nov 14, 2025
YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites
The room was quite small but comfortable. Decent views. Friendly service. Had a fight with the bidet.
Reviewed on Nov 14, 2025
Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites
Very good
Reviewed on Nov 14, 2025
Quest Macquarie Park
Nice Family Stay
Reviewed on Nov 5, 2025
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.
Manly Beach
Take one of Sydney's most popular ferry rides to discover calm coves and surf beaches, restaurants, bars, shopping and spectacular views.
Taronga Zoo
This world-renowned zoo is cherished for its Sydney Harbour views and its residents.
Bondi Beach
Locals and travelers from all over the world come to worship the sun, sand and clear blue waters of Australia’s most famous beach.
Things to do
Taronga Zoo Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise
Sydney Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise from Circular Quay
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Tickets
Sydney Opera House Official Guided Walking Tour
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.
Other places like Sydney
- Circular Quay
- Sydney Opera House
- Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Manly Beach
- Taronga Zoo
- Bondi Beach
- Qudos Bank Arena
- White Bay Cruise Terminal
- Overseas Passenger Terminal
- International Convention Centre Sydney
- Sydney Town Hall
- Accor Stadium
- SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
- Luna Park Sydney
- King Street Wharf
- Capitol Theatre
- World Square Shopping Centre
- Sydney Tower Eye
- University of New South Wales
- Westmead Hospital
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
- Oxford Street
