New South Wales - Sydney

Jump down to find what to do and where to stay in Sydney

With an infectious lively atmosphere, this evocative and diverse harbourside city fills the senses with an eclectic blend of stimulants, from breathtaking landmarks to unparalleled Australian history.

The sprawling metropolis of Sydney is Australia’s capital in all but name and has a variety in which the most discerning traveller will find much to tantalise and amaze. Sydney benefits from a mix of cultures that foster the distinctive ambience that fills its vibrant streets.

With the amazing array of sights to admire Sydney is certainly a city that excites tourist’s historic and architectural senses. The iconic Sydney Opera House is an instantly recognisable landmark that has a uniquely awe-inspiring façade – enjoy the view from a distance or take in an evening show and experience the fantastic acoustics. A walk over the imposing Sydney Harbour Bridge affords a spectacular view across the across the harbour to the Opera House.

Lying between these two impressive structures is The Rocks, an area where you can explore cobblestone lanes, historic buildings and the informative visitors’ centre. The Darling Harbour is another great place to spend some time: a delightful modern waterside complex with a range of shops and restaurants. There are also plenty of attractions in the area including the Sydney Aquarium, the Chinese Garden of Friendship and the educational Australia National Maritime Museum.

Beaches are also a feature of this diverse city with none more famous than the one-kilometre stretch of Bondi. Relax on the golden sands, enjoy a surf in the crystal-clear water or just take in the beauty.

Shopping in Sydney is superb and offers vast variety – from quaint markets to glorious department stores. The Queen Victoria Building is exquisite, holding over 200 stores, and the historic Strand Arcade benefits from some of Sydney’s most stylish and unique shops. Specialist boutiques are located in George Street and the ideal souvenir hot spot is The Rocks.

The eclectic way of life in Sydney is reflected in the dining options with a choice of food that is almost endless, from incredibly varied international cuisine to fresh, local seafood.

Sydney Airport is about situated 10kms from the city (approx 30 minutes, if you are lucky...)

What to do and where to stay in Sydney

Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 3star+ Mercure Hotel Sydney Listing	Convenient location. Adjacent to Central Railway Station, this hotel is well-placed for exploring the city and its surrounding area, as well as offering facilities of its own. It is within easy walking distance of Chinatown and the city centre, providing a good base for those hoping to discover the city’s many attractions, shops and restaurants...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4star Quality Hotel Cambridge Listing	Facilities + value for money. Friendly staff extend a warm welcome at this hotel, whose comfortable, modern interior offers value for money and a good base for exploring Sydney...
What to do Sydney Attraction Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb Listing and Review	- If you only do one activity in Sydney - I would highly recommend this one. Reaching the top of the Bridge is rewarded by the breathtaking view. You spend approx two hours on the bridge itself, weaving through catwalks, up ladders and then to the most spectacular point of all...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 3star Hotel Ibis Darling Harbour Listing	Best for - excellent location. With many rooms offering views of Sydney’s Darling Harbour, this hotel is in the heart of the tourist centre and offers good-value accommodation for your stay in Sydney...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 5 star Sydney Intercontinental Listing and Review	- Old elegance + modern facilities. The InterContinental Sydney is a city landmark, built around the Treasury Building which dates back to 1851. Stylish rooms boast luxurious touches to make your stay extra special, along with views of the harbour, Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Gardens...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4 star The Grace Hotel Listing	Best for - historic style. A beautiful, heritage-listed neo-Gothic building with art deco interiors, The Grace Hotel has a rich and colourful atmosphere that has established it as one of the Sydney’s best-loved landmarks...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4 star Oaks Maestri Towers Listing	Apartment living. Set in the heart of Sydney, not far from Darling Harbour, this apartment-style hotel is perfect for those looking for the added flexibility of self-catering with easy access to the sights...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4 star Old Sydney Holiday Inn Listing	Boutique style comforts + roof top pool. The exciting world of Sydney is your oyster from the Old Sydney Holiday Inn. This boutique-style hotel offers its guests a high standard of service, an excellent location for exploring the city and comfortable rooms to rest in after a busy day of sightseeing...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4 star plus Four Points by Sheraton Listing	Four Points by Sheraton, Darling Harbour enjoys fantastic views over Darling Harbour. The Four Points prides itself on friendly service, and is an ideal place to enjoy your stay in Sydney, with a great location for looking around this fabulous city...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 5 star Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney Listing	Best for - spacious rooms and city panoramas. Located between the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, the Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney offers stunning views. Enjoy the sights of Sydney while dining at the Altitude Restaurant or simply relax by the pool...
Where to stay Sydney Hotel - 4 star Swiss-Grand Resort and Spa Listing	Soak up the sun and lie on the sand of Australia’s famous Bondi beach as you watch the Bondi lifesavers at work.With first-class facilities and a good choice of restaurants and bars, plus an excellent position for absorbing the atmosphere, the Swiss-Grand is the ideal escape...