Sydney Travel Guide Winter 2025 by Big Splash Media

quayquartersydney.com.au @quayquartersydney

EAT.

EXPLORE DRINK.

From casual “cheap eats” to a more formal sit down dining experience, Kensington Street has you covered. Also home to the world famous “Spice Alley” — A vibrant bustling collection of South-East Asian cuisine, drinks and desserts.

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails at Gin Lane or the Japanese-inspired Nomu Bar, or unwind with your favourite local wines while you dine. Whether you love a cozy spot or a vibrant atmosphere, Kensington Street will elevate your night out!

On behalf of the City of Sydney, I am pleased to welcome you to our beautiful harbourside home, and to our vibrant neighbourhoods and villages that are just a quick trip from our city centre. Having a glittering harbour and pristine beaches so close to our city centre makes Sydney a unique place to live, work or visit. Our dynamic cultural scene, plentiful shopping and extraordinary food culture will ensure your time here is memorable.

Our city is home to a diverse population, including people from more than 200 different nationalities. We also have a thriving LGBTIQA+ community, with a long and celebrated history.

Local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities also have a strong connection to our area. Be sure to visit bara, sitting proud above Bennelong Point near the Sydney Opera House. The sculptural artwork by Aboriginal artist Judy Watson is modelled after the crescent shapes of bara – traditional fish hooks crafted and used by local women for thousands of years.

Whether you are on a budget or want to enjoy the many luxuries we have on offer, Sydney will not disappoint. We boast globally renowned hatted restaurants, showing off Australia’s abundance of fresh ingredients. But some of our most sought-after delicacies can be found in unexpected places, tiny cafes, decades-old family-run businesses or food trucks. If you’re enjoying one of our harbour beaches, you can even buy a coffee or an ice cream from a dinghy.

Sydney’s star attractions are destinations in their own right. Be sure to visit Circular Quay, the home of the Sydney Opera House, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the entrance to the Royal Botanic Garden. From there you can take a short stroll to The Rocks, where you can see some of Sydney’s oldest buildings.

Our world-class theatre, ballet and opera companies dazzle with their inspiring work, but art is not relegated to our landmark theatres, museums and buildings. Music, performance, murals and sculptures are everywhere, making the city a fun, buzzy place.

I also encourage you to experience Sydney like a local – to explore our inner-city villages and neighbourhoods, and discover the cultural and culinary gems hidden in our laneways and streets. We offer designer boutiques and craft markets, a vibrant theatre community and world-class cafes, pubs and restaurants, just a short trip from our city centre by our bus, train, light rail or metro.

Every year, there are spectacular major events to enjoy, from Sydney New Year’s Eve, Sydney Lunar Festival and Sydney Christmas to Vivid Sydney and Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Be sure to look out for our Sydney ambassadors wearing red shirts, and visit Customs House Visitor Information Centre at 31 Alfred Street, just opposite Circular Quay. You can find out what’s on in our magical waterfront city at whatson.sydney.

Clover Moore AO

Lord Mayor of Sydney

8 TOP TIPS FOR VISITORS

Adesire to connect with visitors and help people experience the best of Sydney is why Rachel Le Grove first joined the Sydney ambassadors program in 2017. While on holiday in Japan, she was struck by how helpful people were and wanted to do the same for visitors in her hometown of Sydney, and she found the perfect opportunity with the ambassadors. Rachel can now » Sydney Ambassador supervisor Rachel Le Grove shares her recommendations.

often be found at the Visitors’ Desk in Customs House, or roaming around Circular Quay with the ambassadors. Here, Rachel shares her eight top tips for visiting the city:

1. Use contactless card payments on public transport or buy an Opal card to travel with ease and see as much as possible.

2. Make the most of Sydney’s ferry network for a new perspective. Take the F3 to Cockatoo Island, where you can join a tour or camp overnight, or I’d recommend a night trip from Circular Quay to Barangaroo to see the city lit up.

3. Don’t overlook the Northern Beaches. It’s so easy to travel there – catch a B1 bus across

the Harbour Bridge (you get fantastic views over the harbour) and you’ll reach all the way to stunning Palm Beach, where you can walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

4. Take the ferry to Taronga Zoo and walk from Bradley’s Head to Balmoral Beach. It’s a ninekilometre walk that takes you past bush, beaches and wildlife. It’s one of my favourites.

5. Many of Sydney’s museums and galleries are free to visit and have beautiful cafes to enjoy on a brisk winter’s day, such as the Maritime Museum in Pyrmont.

6. Be sure to watch a show, whether that’s a free musical performance like Jazz Sessions in The Rocks, or a ticketed show

like MJ the Musical at Sydney Lyric, or The Book of Mormon, which arrives at Capitol Theatre in July. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening – and I also work front-of-house at the Capitol, so come and say hello!

7. Go to the Visitors’ Desk at Customs House in Circular Quay. Walking over the giant 3D model of Sydney is a must, and there are often free exhibitions to see. You can also pick up a copy of the Sydney Travel Guide and plan the rest of your day, too.

8. Download the free Sydney Culture Walks app to choose from many self-guided walks around the city, and find information on places of interest too. See city.sydney/culture-walk-app.

OUR MOST STUNNING PORT

» The Port Authority of NSW welcomes you to Sydney

Welcome to Sydney on behalf of Business Sydney and our many member organisations. You’ve chosen the perfect time to visit our wonderful city and enjoy the cooler winter days.

There is so much to see and do with an eclectic variety of attractions, dining experiences and world-class entertainment. And Sydney now has all the transport options that you would expect in a global city, from friendly, knowledgeable point-to-point

It’s hard to think of a more beautiful harbour to sail into than Sydney Harbour. Whether arriving at the Overseas Passenger Terminal or nearby White Bay Cruise Terminal, you’ll be greeted by one of the world’s most stunning and iconic landscapes.

I still remember the first time I laid eyes on the Sydney Opera House against the backdrop of the harbour – it’s one of the most iconic cruising experiences and a sight that never loses its charm.

I hope you’ll take some time to truly explore our beautiful city. From the historic laneways of The Rocks to the lush Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller.

The Port Authority team is committed to ensuring your arrival is safe and smooth. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’re introducing shore power at White Bay Cruise Terminal – allowing cruise ships to plug into clean energy while in port.

We hope you enjoy every moment of your visit to this remarkable city. Enjoy your stay, and welcome ashore – we look forward to being part of your Sydney experience!

John

McKenna CEO,

Port Authority of NSW operators to fantastic light rail and new Metro rail connections.

Whether you’ve arrived in our beautiful city by air, sea or land, we want your visit to be enduringly special. You are very welcome here and already way ahead in picking up your copy of the Sydney Travel Guide. As the guide shows, there is much more to the city than our iconic beaches, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. In it, you will find a rich and varied city that is unique in so many ways. We are very much an entertainment, retail and venues city, with a vibrant night-time economy.

And Sydneysiders love to help visitors explore their city. I am delighted to say that some of our

member organisations are among those that provide the services that can help make your stay so memorable.

To introduce ourselves, Business Sydney is the voice for business in Sydney. For nearly 200 years, we have worked to advance Sydney as a global, competitive and liveable city – and a city that welcomes visitors.

We couldn’t be happier to have you in our wonderful city. Thank you for coming and spending some time with us.

Paul Nicolaou

Executive Director,

Business Sydney

We acknowledge and pay our respect to the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of New South Wales and all Aboriginal Elders, past, present and emerging.

» CONTENTS

FIND CITY

Sydney Travel Guide is published by Cruise Media Australasia, a Big Splash Media company. Port Authority of New South Wales is a proud supporter of this publication.

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher

Peter Lynch

Editor

Bernadette Chua

Associate Editors

Amy Hughes, Chris Singh

Main contributors

Bernadette Chua, Amy Hughes, Isabelle James, Lucy Jones and Chris Singh

Commercial Director

Phil Mahony

Advertising sales

Aaron Page and Vida Folden

Printed by IVE

Big Splash Media, Suite G01, 46a Macleay St, Potts Point, Sydney 2011. (02) 9356 8888. sydneytravelguide.com.au

Cover: The Roosevelt, Potts Point

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Copyright Big Splash Media Pty Ltd. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and are not necessarily those of the publisher. All reasonable e orts have been made to contact copyright holders. Information provided believed to be correct at time of publication. Details can change and all information, including prices, should be checked with websites provided.

WINTER HIGHLIGHTS

Embrace the magic of winter in Sydney! See our list of the attractions and experiences taking place in the city from now until September.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Your bucket list of city hotspots, precincts and places to see.

SIGHTSEEING

Sydney’s harbour, villages, walks and beaches. Plus, attractions for all the family.

INDIGENOUS

Discover cultural experiences, galleries and exhibitions that highlight the rich heritage of Australia’s First Peoples.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Explore it all – art, history and more – at Sydney’s world-class cultural institutions.

58 FOOD AND DRINK

From high-end dining to budget bites and unique Sydney experiences, these are the must-taste ﬂavours of the city.

NIGHTLIFE

Pumping pubs, boogie bars, cool cocktails, after-dark eats… Find out where to party in Sydney until the wee hours.

73 SYDNEY SHOPPING

Big brands, Aussie labels, shops and malls – choose your own shopping adventure in these fabulous retail hotspots.

83 EXPERIENCES

Brave climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, cuddle a koala or take in the splendour of the coastline with a heli tour.

90 OUT OF TOWN

Daytrips less than three hours out of the centre of Sydney – the Blue Mountains, Wollongong, Southern Highlands and more.

TRANSPORT

How to get around our city by bus, taxi, light rail, train, ferry, share bike and the new metro. Plus, ‘hop on, hop o ’ services and how to pay.

*Maps copyright Locl Tours – free walking tours at locltour.com +61 (0) 425 291 425

WINTER HIGHLIGHTS

Our biggest visitors

There’s winter, then there’s Sydney winter. The temperature may have dropped, but the sun often shines, so you can head outside and sample the scenic and cultural delights of the city. In winter, Sydney’s beaches come alive in a di erent way.

Migrating humpback whales are often spotted along the coastline and a wander along the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is even more impressive when you spot a breaching whale. The recently upgraded Dover Heights to Watsons Bay walk and the hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse from Palm Beach also often come with a spot of whale-watching. Alternatively, climb aboard one of the many whale-watching cruises o ered by the likes of Captain Cook Cruises, Fantasea Cruising or Go Whale Watching.

Opera Australia will present four winter productions at the Sydney Opera House, while CATS the Musical returns for a 40th anniversary run and MJ the Musical moonwalks out of Sydney in August. Whether you’re into arts and culture, or here to try the Sydney lifestyle, there’s so much to see and do – as you’ll soon discover.

Amy Hughes, Associate Editor

WHALE WATCHING

PHOTO:

Featured events

» When the weather turns chilly, Sydney turns up the heat with an array of exciting events.

JUNE

VIVID SYDNEY

The Harbour City’s transformational festival is back and bigger than ever. Swathes of the CBD have been taken over by inspiring art installations, light projections, immersive performances, live music and food experiences. There are five zones to explore: Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line and Inner City, and Martin Place.

Sydney CBD, until June 14, vividsydney.com

WHALE WATCHING

Humpback whales migrating north to Queensland are putting on quite a show along the New South Wales coastline, with sightings in Sydney peaking in June and July. As well as breaching humpbacks, you could be in with a chance of spotting orcas, minke, blue whales, southern right whales and dolphins. Take a cruise with Fantasea Cruising to have an expert guide show you the way.

Departing Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, 1800 326 822, fantasea.com.au

JULY

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Festive scenes seen across the Northern Hemisphere don’t quite have the same effect in December in Sydney, so the Southern Hemisphere came up with a clever solution: bring carols,

markets, ice skating and more to the peak of winter. Rock around the Christmas tree with a mulled wine in hand at The Rocks in July.

The Rocks, July 11-20, christmasinjuly.com.au

BASTILLE FESTIVAL

Embrace the joie de vivre and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of France. This annual celebration showcases the culinary and artistic excellence of French culture. Come for the raclette and stay for the cabaret.

Circular Quay and The Rocks, July 17-20, bastillefestival.com.au

AUGUST

BRITISH & IRISH LIONS TOUR FINAL

For the first time in 12 years, the British & Irish Lions Tour will return to Australia for a festival of rugby that’ll carry them across the country. Nine games will take place across six cities over six weeks, starting in Ireland on June 21 before the team heads Down Under. The final game will be played at the Accor Stadium here in Sydney.

Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, August 2, rugby.com.au/lions-tour

TCS SYDNEY MARATHON

The Sydney Marathon is recognised as one of the seven elite circuits in the world, along with the likes of New York City, London and Tokyo. Brave runners will take on the route in August, crossing the Harbour Bridge, winding through Pyrmont, the CBD and the Botanic Gardens, and finishing at the steps of Sydney Opera House. Whether you’re running or cheering on from the sidelines, it’s a fantastic day to get involved in.

August 31, tcssydneymarathon.com

TCS SYDNEY MARATHON

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Stage

» Whether it’s Roald Dahl at the Opera House or Michael Jackson at the Lyric Theatre, it will be a full house in Sydney.

JUNE

CATS THE MUSICAL

Leaping back onto the same stage it made its Australian debut on 40 years ago, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical CATS will play at Theatre Royal from Tuesday, June 17. Australia’s Dancing with the Stars judge Todd McKenny takes two roles, and Mark Vincent, Australia’s Got Talent 2009 winner, will star as Old Deuteronomy. Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, from June 17- September 6, catsthemusical.com.au

CORIOLANUS

For the first time in 30 years, Bell Shakespeare presents one of William Shakespeare’s most exhilarating political works. The Neilson Nutshell, which sits in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge, is where Hazem Shammas will star as the ferocious

warrior and defender of Rome. After he’s banished from the city, the uncompromising tyrant joins forces with his former enemy to seek vengeance. The Neilson Nutshell, Pier 2/3, 13A Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, June 20-July 19, bellshakespeare.com.au

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Blending Monty Python absurdity with Sherlock Holmes intrigue, this Olivier- and Tony Awardwinning piece of theatre is the longest-running

PHOTOS:

XIADONG; BELL SHAKESPEARE

CATS

CORIOLANUS

comedy in the West End. There’s been a murder at a country manor and an inspector is set on solving the case – but the accident-prone theatre group is less than helpful. It’s a side-splitting night out ﬁlled with chaos and comedy.

Drama Theatre at Sydney Opera House, June 19-August 3, sydneyoperahouse.com

JULY

THE BOOK OF MORMON

A pair of mismatched missionaries has been sent on a mission far away from Salt Lake City. Co-written by the creators of South Park, The Book of Mormon is an outrageous musical comedy that calls for a high tolerance of o ensive content. It’s scooped up nine Tony Awards though, including Best Musical, and is an international sensation. Prepare for profanity and enjoy the show.

Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket, July 15-November 30, thebookofmormonmusical.com.au

THE TWITS

One for the kiddies, Roald Dahl’s irresistible tale of terrible twosome The Twits returns to the Sydney Opera House just in time for the school holidays. Mischief, hilarious mayhem and big belly laughs are rolled into one rollicking show for the whole family to enjoy.

Playhouse at Sydney Opera House, July 5-19, sydneyoperahouse.com

AUGUST

MJ THE MUSICAL

Don’t miss your chance to catch Roman Banks moonwalking across the stage at Sydney Lyric, in MJ the Musical. Set during two days ahead of the Pop King’s Dangerous World Tour, the Broadway hit recounts Michael Jackson’s rise to superstardom. All the crowd-pleasers feature, including “Thriller” and “Beat It”.

Sydney Lyric, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont, until August 23, mjthemusical.com.au

THE BOOK OF MORMON

MJ THE MUSICAL

Music, comedy, dance and sport

» With any luck, you will have timed your visit with one of these cracking events coming to Sydney in the coming months.

JUNE

SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL SHOWCASE – PG EDITION

The Sydney Comedy Festival may be done for the year but Comedy Store is hosting one last bit of fun. All of the top comedians will present an afternoon of laughs for all ages, without the rude bits. Put the babysitter on hold and get down there for some good, clean fun.

Comedy Store, 122 Lang Rd, Moore Park, June 14 at 2:30pm, sydneycomedyfest.com.au

JULY

ARCHIE PARTY 2025

The Art Gallery of NSW knows how to throw a party. Back for its fourth year, Archie Party is a one-night-

only celebration of contemporary art, music and food. All-night access to the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes exhibition (more on page 18) comes together with performances, DJ sets and interactive art experiences to create a surprising, dynamic, fantastic evening.

Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, July 4 from 7pm, artgallery.nsw.gov.au

STATE

OF ORIGIN: GAME 3

Australia’s greatest sporting rivalry will reach its annual peak at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on Wednesday, July 9. Join the crowds in cheering on the New South Wales Blues as they take on the Queensland Maroons in the final match of this year’s State of Origin rugby league series. The game kicks off just after 8pm.

Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, July 9, nrl.com

PHOTOS:

ARCHIE PARTY 2025

STATE OF ORIGIN

CARMEN

One of Australia’s great theatre directors, AnneLouise Sarks, presents a bold modern-day retelling of the opera classic. Sparks fly when Carmen meets Don José, but their smouldering passion sets the stage for tragedy. Performed in the intimate Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House, goosebumps will rise as the orchestra races away with the overture. It marks an exciting role debut for opera star Danielle de Niese, who leads as Carmen. Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, July 10-September 19, sydneyoperahouse.com

AUGUST

CITY2SURF

Hardy runners will take on Heartbreak Hill as they pace down to Bondi Beach from Sydney’s CBD. The 14-kilometre route starts at Hyde Park, winding through the Kings Cross Tunnel before reaching Rose Bay and that infamous hill. Runners are rewarded with one of the most scenic sections of the course as they push through the pain. Cheer on participants and join them in Bondi for the finish line. Hyde Park to Bondi Beach, August 10, city2surf.com.au

BALLET INTERNATIONAL GALA VI

Witness some of the greatest dancers alive on stage at the ballet event of the year. Returning to Sydney for its annual sell-out showcase, the lineup will comprise internationally celebrated dancers from the Royal Ballet, the Australian Ballet, the Mariinsky Theatre and more. Performances will include fan favourites, classical and contemporary repertoires.

State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney, August 14, statetheatre.com.au

CITY2SURF

CARMEN

Art

» From classic to contemporary, the works in Sydney’s galleries will delight art lovers. Here are the must-sees for the coming months.

ARCHIBALD, WYNNE AND SULMAN PRIZES

Julie Fragar (pictured right), Jude Rae and Gene A’Hern beat thousands of entries to win Australia’s three biggest prizes for painting. Their artworks are displayed alongside 54 ﬁnalists’ works in one of Sydney’s most beloved exhibitions. Visit on Wednesday evenings to get two-for-one tickets. Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Nura building, Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, until August 17, artgallery.nsw.gov.au

SYDNEY FILM FESTIVAL

More than 200 ﬁlms will show at this year’s Sydney Film Festival, including 17 world premieres and 137 Australian premieres. Watch the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon or book to see the o -the-wall opening night ﬁlm, Together. It’s one of Sydney’s most celebrated cultural events. Citywide locations, June 4-15, s .org.au

RELICS

LEGO Masters winners Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler have transformed vintage items with tiny LEGO civilisations. A city sprawls out of the hood of a Volkswagen Beetle, and a newspaper headquarters is tucked into a typewriter. If you’re not already

sold, Harvey describes RELICS as “the love child between an antique shop, The LEGO Movie and Blade Runner”.

Australian Museum, 1 William St, Darlinghurst, opens August 16, australian.museum

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Arriving direct from London’s Natural History Museum, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition showcases the world’s most prestigious nature photography competition. Entries put the natural world under the lens, bringing you face to face with seals, a bilby and much more. Look out for this year’s three Aussie winners.

Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, Darling Harbour, until October 19, sea.museum

CERITH WYN EVANS .… IN LIGHT OF THE VISIBLE

The Museum of Contemporary Art’s major winter exhibition will be all over your feeds before you know it – if it isn’t already! Most of the epic light and sound installations have never been seen in Australia, and several site-speciﬁc works engage with the light and sounds of Sydney Harbour. Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks, June 6-October 19, mca.com.au

PHOTOS: JULIE FRAGAR/ART GALLERY OF NSW, DIANA PANUCCIO; CERITH WYN EVANS/LEWIS RONALD

CERITH WYN EVANS

THE ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2025

Independent fashion boutiques, homewares and design stores. Great cafes, bars and an impressive dining scene. Pretty tree-lined streets and heritage architecture. Discover Potts Point Village, a truly unique precinct, just waiting to be explored.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Greater Sydney is made up of more than 600 suburbs, which is a lot of ground to cover! If you have just a short time in the Harbour City, these are the top places to see, ranging from Australia’s most famous beachside ’burb to hidden gems across the bridge. Each area has its own unique personality and plenty of things to keep you entertained. Whether you disembark at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay or further around the harbour at Balmain’s White Bay Terminal, you’ll be within easy reach of all the most popular neighbourhoods and top attractions.

ARCHIE BROTHERS CIRQUE ELECTRIQ

PHOTO: ARCHIE BROTHERS

Sydney Harbour

» Welcome to the vibrant heart of Sydney. Starting at Sydney Harbour, the CBD runs south in a straight line towards Central Railway Station.

In recent years, Sydney CBD has undergone a dramatic transformation. Car tra c has been removed from many streets, creating a safe, walkable city threaded with wide boulevards and outdoor attractions. Though it’s a relatively compact area, it packs a lot in – soaring skyscrapers rub

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1. See the icons. Two of the city’s most famous sights sit right on the edge of the harbour –paddle your way by kayak to see the Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire the Opera House’s sails from the water. sydneybykayak.com.au

2. Relax in central Sydney’s gorgeous green spaces, such as the sprawling harbourside Royal Botanic Garden, the historic Hyde Park (the oldest park in Australia) or the hilltop Observatory Park with its spectacular views. cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/parks

3. Immerse yourself in the stories of Sydney by visiting historic sites such as The Rocks, the heritage precinct along Macquarie Street (home to Parliament House, Hyde Park Barracks and The Mint) and St Mary’s Cathedral.

4. Shop ’til you drop at central Sydney’s best stores – try Pitt Street Mall for international brands, Castlereagh Street for luxury labels and The Strand for Australian designers.

5. Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from the top of its tallest structure, Sydney Tower. The unique Skywalk experience lets you walk around the outside of the tower, 268 metres above the ground. sydneytowereye.com.au

shoulders with grand heritage buildings, bustling shopping malls sit alongside leafy parks, and neonlit food courts give way to hidden laneway bars. If you only have a short time in Sydney, you can still get a taste of what makes this city so appealing.

Sydney Harbour is the most famous sight, but head away from the water to explore the smaller precincts that are home to the city’s real gems. This is a place where people live, work and play, making for a cosmopolitan capital where the streets buzz with activity.

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Opera Bar. Enjoy oysters, seafood, pizza and an all-Aussie wine list at this famed waterfront dining spot. operabar.com.au

2. Dean & Nancy on 22. Watch the sunset from this elegant cocktail bar atop the A by Adina hotel. deanandnancyon22.com.au

3. Captain Cook Cruises. A must-do Sydney dining experience for lunch, high tea, cocktails or dinner. captaincook.com.au

4. Rockpool Bar & Grill. Legendary Sydney steakhouse with a spectacular Art Deco dining room. rockpoolbarandgrill.com.au

5. Mr Wong. Authentic Cantonese dishes and a huge dumpling menu served in an eclectic, art-ﬁlled space. merivale.com

6. McRae Bar. Named in honour of the 1880s sandstone building’s original architect, this cosy drinking den is in the luxe new Capella Hotel. capellahotels.com

OPERA BAR

PLACES OF INTEREST

The Rocks & Millers Point

» Welcome to the birthplace of modern Sydney. Walk down laneways of cobblestone, admire impeccably conserved heritage buildings, find hidden gems in vintage shops and catch a view of the Harbour Bridge within an afternoon.

The area was home to the Gadigal people for thousands of years before they were dispossessed of their land when the first European settlers arrived in 1788. Since then, colonisation transformed the area and The Rocks became Australia’s first town centre and home to the country’s first marketplace. Nowadays, traces of the rich history can still be found alongside eateries, bars and shopping spots. From Australia’s oldest pubs to heritage homes and waterfront fine dining, The Rocks has it all.

TOP 3 THINGS TO DO

1. A walking tour is the best way to explore Australia’s most historic precinct. Hear the fascinating stories of England’s banished thieves on a Journey Walks’ Convict Colony tour or download the Culture Walks app to ﬁnd the self-guided Passage history walk, which takes you from the Customs House to Millers Point. cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

2. The Rocks Markets are home to more than 200 bustling stalls where you’ll discover locally designed fashion, jewellery and homewares, meet local creatives, and sample food from the many vendors. therocks.com

3. See the city from a different perspective with BridgeClimb. Experience one of the most impressive views of the city by scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb o ers various climb options from 2.5 to 3.5 hours and from dawn to dusk and into the night. bridgeclimb.com

TOP 4 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Altitude. This restaurant hovers high above Sydney’s famous harbour landmarks at Shangri-La Sydney. Its chefs celebrate the ﬁnest local produce from land, while optional wine pairing is the perfect ﬁnishing touch to a luxurious meal. shangri-la.com

2. Quay. As head chef of one of the country’s most celebrated restaurants Peter Gilmore has created a menu that is an ode to the Australian landscape, with a nature-inspired interplay of textures and colour. quay.com.au

3. The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel. This institution is the oldest continually licensed hotel in the city and it’s regarded for its award-winning beers, wine list, food and accommodation. lordnelsonbrewery.com

4. The Collective. The impressive sandstone walls of the heritage Argyle Stores building frame several restaurants and bars all o ering vastly di erent experiences in a choose-yourown-adventure style, from breakfast through to dinner. thecollectiverocks.com.au

WHAT’S ON

Make sure not to miss free live jazz sessions under the stars in The Rocks (therocks.com), every Thursday, 6pm-8:30pm, from now until September. It’s the perfect way to unwind, watching the best of Australia’s contemporary jazz scene against the

charming backdrop of The Rocks Square on Playfair Street.

In July, look forward to 10 days of festive magic as Christmas In July (christmasinjuly.com.au) brings markets, mulled wine and more to The Rocks from July 11-20, 10am-11pm.

Barangaroo & King Street Wharf

» It’s all about good times by the water in these buzzy suburbs, tucked just inside the inner harbour to the west of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Sydney’s newest harbourside precinct, Barangaroo, is known for its glittering skyscrapers, stylish restaurants and leafy parkland. Formerly an industrial area and shipping terminal, Barangaroo occupies the northeastern edge of the bay with the landmark 75-ﬂoor Crown Tower (the tallest skyscraper in Sydney) in the centre. Walk along the

wide waterfront promenade to enjoy the sparkling harbour views, then head into the winding streets of Barangaroo to discover cafes, shops and small bars. Just next door, King Street Wharf is home to stalwarts of the food and beverage scene. Cargo Bar and Bungalow 8 are Sydney nightlife staples, while steaks at Steersons and the Indian fare at Manjits attract locals and tourists alike. There’s also lively watering hole Henley’s and Alegre, Sydney’s coolest Mexican restaurant. It’s a great spot for a long lunch and most venues have early evening happy hours, daily food specials and live entertainment.

TOP 5

THINGS TO DO

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Oncore by Clare Smyth. Fine dining and spectacular views at Crown from a three-star Michelin chef. crownsydney.com.au

2. Hello Auntie. Cool and quirky Vietnamese food with Asian-inspired cocktails. hello-auntie.com.au

3. Mecca Bah. Modern Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare in an al-fresco setting. meccabah.sydney

4. The Malaya. Founded in 1963, The Malaya infuses fresh local seafood with Nonya and Malaysian ﬂavours. themalaya.com.au

5. Ume Burger. This tiny stall uses top-shelf local produce to craft beautiful Japanese-inspired burgers. umeburger.com

6. a’Mare. Showstopping Italian food with tableside cooking in an old-school setting. crownsydney.com.au

1. Explore beautiful Barangaroo Reserve, home to 75,000 native trees and shrubs, as well as outdoor artworks and Indigenous displays. Grab some lunch for a picnic with a harbour view, then cool o with a swim at Marrinawi Cove. barangaroo.com

2. Have breakfast with a koala, come eye-toeye with a crocodile, cruise through a colony of penguins and meet Pig the dugong at the excellent WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. wildlifesydney .com.au; visitsealife.com/sydney

3. Take a selﬁe with your favourite celebrity at Madame Tussauds wax museum. There’s a special zone for ﬁgures in Australian history. madametussauds.com/sydney

4. Pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir or treat yourself to a piece of Sydney fashion at one of the stylish boutiques tucked away in the laneways of Barangaroo. thestreetso arangaroo.com/shop

5. Escape the noise of the city in the tranquil Chinese Garden of Friendship. Inspired by the philosophy of feng shui, the garden fuses elements of water, stone, plants and architecture. darlingharbour.com

DARLING HARBOUR

ONCORE BY CLARE SMYTH

PHOTOS:

Pyrmont

» Visit this thriving waterfront destination to enjoy a pocket of harbourfront, framed by the colonial heritage of classic old pubs and the historically significant Jones Bay Wharf.

Despite Sydney’s oldest casino and signature fish market defining Pyrmont for years, there’s a breath of fresh air breezing through this side of Darling Harbour. Creative cafes sit on one side, cinematic waterfront fine diners stand on the other, and hidden gems dance in between. Years ago, dinner in Pyrmont before a show at Sydney Lyric was not on the agenda; now there’s such a strong food scene that pre-theatre dining never tasted so good.

TOP 3 THINGS TO DO

1. Sydney Lyric Theatre. Big names barrel onto the stage at the Sydney Lyric throughout the year, with Broadway and West End’s showstoppers making this star attraction a regular haunt for theatregoers. sydneylyric.com.au

2. Terminus Hotel. Since 1841, the Terminus has become part of the furniture in Darling Harbour. Fair prices, elevated pub food and an old-timey atmosphere are standard, but simplicity is what this bolthole does so well. terminuspyrmont.com

3. Australian National Maritime Museum. Sydney’s seafaring history is explored with interactive activities and exhibitions at this long-loved institution. Tour a replica of Captain Cook’s ship HMB Endeavour and dip into a Cold War submarine to learn about Sydney’s “secret strike”. sea.museum

TOP 4 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. LuMi Dining. Built on a wharf in front of The Star casino, LuMi Dining is a fine diner with equal parts attitude and elegance. Picturesque plates of fine Australian produce are filtered through exacting Asian techniques, dialling up strong flavours in a light-filled dining room. lumidining.com

2. Umami Dojo. This 16-seat ramen shop takes precision to new heights, using a glass coffee siphon method to precisely control flavours. Only three types of ramen are on the menu, but the theatrical and eccentric method translates to bowls unlike any other. instagram.com/umamidojoramen

3. Sokyo. The Star’s premier Japanese restaurant boasts the hardest reservation to come across in Sydney: a star-studded omakase where our best seafood is sliced with militant precision. star.com.au

4. Quick Brown Fox. Pyrmont’s signature cafe refines brunch staples with gentle Asian flavours, dialling in the kind of consistency all chefs strive for, but few ever achieve. quickbrownfoxeatery.com.au

HOW TO GET THERE

Stroll along the Goods Line if travelling from Central. If coming from the city, walk across Pyrmont Bridge, one of the largest and oldest electrically operated swing bridges in the world. Alternatively, take a ferry from North Sydney, Circular Quay or Balmain. Once there, download the Sydney Culture Walks app to explore the Port History Walk route (city.sydney/culture-walk-app).

SYDNEY LYRIC THEATRE

LuMi DINING

Surry Hills

» Surry Hills has long been at the cutting edge of dining, drinking and dressing up for a fabulous night out, Sydney-style.

Surry Hills is where Sydney’s trends are born, an inner-city village that’s the gold standard for the hip, fashionable and hungry. Food in Surry Hills is a big deal, and the major strip of Crown Street is lined with historic pubs, fine-dining favourites and cheap-and-cheerfuls. A strong sense of community has kept these leafy streets coursing with the kind of life and laughter that makes this such a treasured wellspring of Sydney’s energetic lifestyle.

TOP 4 THINGS TO DO

1. Belvoir St Theatre. On-the-pulse, pointed programming and a lasting commitment to Indigenous culture define the Belvoir. Since 1984, this former tomato-sauce factory has showcased progressive stories and fostered Australia’s finest stage talent. belvoir.com.au

2. Bar Copains. The quintessential, cosy neighbourhood wine bar in Surry Hills was an immediate hit, with a beautifully edited wine list and delectable bar snacks. barcopains.com

3. Hollywood Hotel. This sticky-floored favourite, once owned by the late actor Doris Goddard, is noted for its unpretentious vibe, good prices and that mesmerising spinning mirror ball that makes every night feel like Friday. hollywoodhotelsydney.com.au

4. Tio’s Cerveceria. Every hip suburb needs a good time Tequila bar. In Surry Hills, that responsibility lands with Tio’s. It’s squared with stiff, perfect classic cocktails. tios.com.au

TOP 4 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Pellegrino 2000. Reservations may be hard to score, since Taylor Swift dined there in 2024. If you can get a table, you’ll be richly rewarded with subversive plates such as scallop ravioli using wonton wrappers. pellegrino2000.com

2. Gildas. Lennox Hastie from the acclaimed Firedoor flirts with Spanish tapas just up the road from his acclaimed steakhouse. Basque culture is expressed through deeply structured wines, exciting small dishes and a must-try plum cake with roasted almonds. gildas.com.au

3. Sang by Mabasa. Homely Korean food is treated with fine ingredients and precise techniques. Korean fried chicken wings and kimchi pancakes are mandatory during the day, but dinner turns towards fine dining with a penchant for unexpected flavours. sangbymabasa.com.au

4. Porteňo. One of the world’s best steakhouses leans towards fine-dining Argentinian with beautiful wood-fired produce alchemised into simple dishes such as smoked charcoal chicken and a criminally underrated burrata and fig salad. porteno.com.au

BELVOIR ST THEATRE

PORTEŇO

PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW

Chippendale

» What was once a maze of creeks leading into Blackwattle Swamp is now one of Sydney’s most sought-after inner suburbs.

While behind Parramatta Road is mostly residential, the design-savvy area along Sydney’s most central strip is home to stunning retro architecture, credited to the gigantic former Carlton United Brewery. After an extensive urban redevelopment, this transformative part of Sydney is at the forefront of the city’s push for cutting-edge technology. Within walking distance of Central Station, Chippendale’s deﬁnitive Central Park is a modern, cutting-edge shopping mall. Running alongside it is Kensington Street, a productive alleyway packed with restaurants, bars and one of Sydney’s only Singapore-style hawker centres.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1. Go gaming. Fortress is fast becoming one of the best “alternative” nights out in Sydney with all types of physical and digital gaming on o er. fortress.games

2. For elegant cocktails, spend some time at the gorgeous art deco bar at the bottom of the creative Old Clare Hotel. odehotels.com

3. Trace the backstreets of Chippendale for dozens of cutting-edge galleries; many of them host after-hours art parties and regular launches. White Rabbit Gallery is a futuristic and entirely free space dedicated to cutting-edge 21st century Chinese art and is one of Sydney’s most reliable local secrets. whiterabbitcollection.org

4. Catch the latest movie at Palace Cinemas if you want a quiet night out. You can also enjoy a glass of bubbles. palacecinemas.com.au

5. For something louder, head along to the Abercrombie Hotel on a weekend. Pub by day, nightclub at night, it has a long legacy of hosting the best parties. abercrombie.sydney

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Spice Alley. Start your food crawl in Spice Alley with every facet of South-East Asian food o ered at a ordable prices. The narrow, neonlit outdoor food hall opened in 2015, presenting a modern alternative to Chinatown’s bustling Dixon Street. spicealley.com.au

2. Longshore. Fine dining takes centre stage at Longshore, where foodies are satisﬁed by wagyu with buttered black garlic tiger prawns, pickled mussels and spanner crab with potato hash and Aleppo pepper. longshore.com.au

3. Ester. This chef’s favourite is one of the country’s ﬁnest with a dynamic set menu of local ingredients. ester-restaurant.com.au

4. KOI Dessert Bar. Reynold Poernomo’s innovative dessert bar serves luxurious cakes, co ee and matcha. koidessertbar.com.au

5. The Lord Gladstone. For a classic Aussie pub lunch head over to this local favourite, which also hosts dance parties. lordgladstone.com.au

6. Kyiv Social Club. You’ll want to pop into social enterprise Kyiv Social Club, the only Ukrainian restaurant in the city. plateitforward.org.au/ kyiv-social

DID YOU KNOW…

Chippendale sits at the centre of a planned $3 billion tech hub. This includes the world’s tallest hybrid timber building, set to open in 2026: the 40-storey headquarters for Aussie tech stalwart Atlassian. This contrasts with architectural treasures such as Frank Ghery’s Dr Chau Chak Wing Building.

SPICE ALLEY

PLACES OF INTEREST

Erskineville

» It used to be a byword for grunge, now it’s one of the most desirable addresses in the Inner West. But funky Erko has never lost its alternative edge.

Despite often being considered a sideshow to Newtown’s hip King Street, Erskineville has shaped its own strong identity as an inclusive and relaxed leafy streetscape, where community counts for more than the latest foodie craze or cocktail trend. The tiny collection of cafes, restaurants and bars replaces variety with focus, building up a food scene that punches well above its weight. Life is easy and breezy in good ol’ Erko, with Newtown just a shimmy away.

TOP 3 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Priscilla’s. Three-quarters of the menu is vegetarian at the legendary Priscilla’s, which has papered over its debaucherous past with fun, frivolity, good food, and – sticking to tradition – weekly drag-and-dine shows. imperialerskineville.com.au

2. Fleetwood Macchiato. This beloved cafe is a reliable day-starter with freshly baked treats alongside some of the best coffee in the area. A strong suite of more-is-more sandwiches makes this a lunchtime favourite. fleetwoodmacchiato.com.au

3. Shenkin. Erko’s communal spine would be bent out of shape if it weren’t for this longstanding Israeli cafe. Vibrant, good-humoured service matches well with bright dishes such as the signature shakshuka served with piping hot pita bread. shenkin.com.au

TOP 3

THINGS TO DO

1. The Cipher Room. You’d hardly expect to find a surreal, immersive escape room in a suburb as nice as Erko, but here we are. The Cipher Room offers three cutting-edge experiences designed for maximum group fun. cipherroom.com.au

2. The Imperial Hotel. If there is anything that truly defines Erskineville, it’s this historic pub. The Imperial Hotel is steeped in the LGBTQI+ community, with wild basement parties, colourful quiz nights and a strong commitment to pride and inclusion. imperialerskineville.com.au

3. The Erko Hotel. A well-worn local, The Erko has been standing since 1882, oozing the kind of unique charms that can only be built by decades of good beer, good food and good times. theerko.com.au

THE ERKO HOTEL

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL

SHENKIN PHOTOS:

Alexandria & Rosebery

» No longer a transit zone between the airport and the city, these inner-southern Sydney suburbs on either side of Botany Road are a prime example of urban renewal at work.

Rosebery pushes some of Sydney’s most underrated cafes and restaurants, and they line its quiet, leafy streets. Meanwhile, a massive industrial space in Alexandria has turned into Sydney’s premier allages entertainment precinct. These twin suburbs have fast become two of our city’s most interesting and ever-evolving neighbourhoods.

TOP 3 EXPERIENCES

1. Archie Rose Distilling Co. Book an insightful distillery tour to uncover Archie Rose’s innovative techniques, which have earned its extensive range of gin, whisky, vodka and rum many awards over the years. Fashioned as a stylish cellar door, it’s where you’ll find Rosebery’s trendy crowd on a breezy Sunday afternoon. archierose.com.au

2. Soak Bathhouse. Sydney’s wellness scene shot up to a new level when Soak opened its ambitious complex; its modern baths redefine relaxation. soakbathhouse.com.au

3. Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. A retrofuturistic take on a classic indoor arcade has given Rosebery a shockingly good time. This all-ages, rainy day favourite runs the full gamut of warehouse games, VR spectacles and theatre rides. archiebrothers.com.au

TOP 5 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Da Mario. The flag flies high for Naples at this staunchly traditional pizza joint. As the star of Rosebery’s The Cannery food hall, Da Mario’s casual cool and blistering hot wood-fired oven echo the value of authenticity. damario.com.au

2. Three Blue Ducks. What started as a Bronte café is now a fully-fledged fleet of six relaxed restaurants, with one in Rosebery. The woodfired oven and charcoal pits add a smokiness to several dishes, and the Sunday roast is one of Sydney’s best. threeblueducks.com

3. The Grounds of Alexandria. One of the most famous cafes in the world can be found right here. There are three venues: the Café, for coffee, brekkie, sandwiches and salads; The Potting Shed, which is filled with lush greenery; and The Garden, where takeaway pizza, burgers and BBQ foods are served. thegrounds.com.au

4. Yulli’s Brews. Beautiful balanced red ales, a progressive all-vegetarian menu and a relentless loyalty to good times. Yulli’s Brews in Alexandria is one of Sydney’s most forward-thinking brewpubs, constantly set on transforming drinkers’ palates. yullisbrews.com.au

5. Lune Croissanterie. This Melbourne-born bakery draws acclaim thanks to its fluffy, buttery products. Massive demand brought it to Sydney in 2024. lunecroissanterie.com

SOAK BATHHOUSE

THE GROUNDS OF ALEXANDRIA

PLACES OF INTEREST

Bondi

» Visit the most famous beach in Australia, a place known around the world for its golden sand, rolling waves, beautiful people and funloving lifestyle.

You can expect Bondi to be packed with locals and tourists alike every day in the warmer months. Dive straight into the ocean (make sure you stay between the red and yellow ﬂags), splash about in the two rock pools at the beach’s northern end or join the surfers bobbing o the southern end. Away from the water, Bondi also has a reputation for its stylish shopping, buzzy bars and great restaurants.

TOP 6 THINGS TO DO

1. Swim in the Insta-famous Bondi Icebergs pool, a stunning Olympic-sized pool carved into the rock and painted white. icebergs.com.au

2. Take a surﬁng lesson or hire a sur oard so you can catch your own Bondi wave. letsgosurﬁng.com.au

3. Take the Bondi to Coogee Walk, a spectacular trek along the cli tops. Look out for the Aboriginal rock carvings at Mark’s Park. bonditocoogeewalk.com

4. Visit the farmers market on Saturday or the famous Bondi Markets on Sunday to pick up some local treats. bondimarkets.com.au

5. Check out the Bondi Pavilion to see local art, join a workshop or admire the architecture. First opened in 1928, it recently completed a $48-million refurb. bondipavilion.com.au

6. Walk heritage-listed Waverley Cemetery, which opened in this spectacular spot in 1877 and is the resting place of many inﬂuential Australians. waverley.nsw.gov.au/cemeteries

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Speedos Café. The most Instagrammable café in the world, with an epic beach view and pretty-as-a-picture meals. speedoscafe.com.au

2. Totti’s. A celebrity hangout serving modern Italian and cocktails in a sunny courtyard. merivale.com

3. North Bondi Fish. Exceptional seafood with a Bondi twist from legendary Australian chef Matt Moran. northbondiﬁsh.com.au

4. Hotel Ravesis. A true Bondi icon – grab a seat on the verandah for drinks and peoplewatching. hotelravesis.com

5. Icebergs Dining Room. One of Sydney’s favourite places for a long lunch, serving up great seafood and ocean views. idrb.com

6. Sean’s Bondi. Serving comforting home-style food from a daily-changing menu since opening in 1993. seansbondi.com

NORTH BONDI FISH

BONDI TO COOGEE WALK

Potts Point Village

» Spend time in our inner-city village.

Fashion and antiques shine in this vibrant, stylish neighbourhood, nestled among tree-lined streets and historic architecture.

Stretching from the iconic El Alamein Fountain along Macleay Street and into Orwell, Hughes and Victoria Streets, you’ll find boutique designer stores filled with art, antiques, books, fragrance, jewellery and fashion, alongside neighbourhood cafés, bars and a standout dining scene, for all-day exploring and evening indulgence.

Antiques & Fashion

The ‘Paris end’ of Potts Point, Macleay Street showcases the very best antiques and design stores, from curated window displays that change with the seasons, to unique bric-a-brac perfect for afternoon rummaging – start at one end and follow whatever sparks your curiosity.

Antique Decorative Art is an intimate, gallery-like treasure trove of antique furniture and objets d’art inside an Art Deco building. Potts Point Galleries showcases unique pieces from specialist dealers – from 1950s glassware to ancient bronzes – with a vintage rack in the window that always tempts.

A Potts Point institution, Macleay on Manning is ever-changing, with fashion, homewares and fragrance from all over, it’s for eclectic lovers: more is definitely more! Vintage gems can also be found at Antiques-Art-Design and Macleay Concept Store.

Street style in Potts Point is all about character, curation and quality; locals don’t follow trends, they set them. Baz Inc is known for its locally made womenswear, designed by Baz herself and chosen to celebrate different fabrics, textures and seasons. By Freer embodies elevated essentials, designed and made locally, while Becker Minty has loyal customers both here and abroad, thanks to

Clockwise, from left: Potts Point Village business owners; look out for stunning window displays at Macleay on Manning; stop for a glass of bubbles at The Butler; a breakfast favourite, Piña.

its curated selection of art, fashion and furniture. A Date With Mabel, Locale and Arida are also fantastic fashion destinations.

Shopping for gifts couldn’t be easier in Potts Point. Grandiﬂora is world-renowned for a reason – their blooms, fragrances and books are a love letter to botanica. For book lovers, Potts Point Bookshop is a beloved local gem known for its varied selection, and cult fragrance atelier Le Labo brings a slow and intentional perfumery experience to Potts Point Village.

Artisan Food

Potts Point Village is a foodies’ dream where you can feast on artisanal lunches or build the ultimate cheese board: Penny’s Cheese Shop is Sydney’s favourite fromagerie, Small’s Deli (a Nigella favourite) serves Euro-inspired baguettes, and Juno & Sons is a corner shop and mini-grocer with unique ingredients.

Llankelly Place is home to breakfast legends Room 10 and Piña, both cult brunch spots and beloved by locals and chefs alike. Cafe de la Fontaine brings Parisian ﬂair to Macleay Street with glossy éclairs, crusty baguettes and a prime people-watching perch near the fountain.

Dinner Spots

Many of Sydney’s best restaurants are in Potts Point, o ering many cuisines and atmospheres, from family-friendly, open-air dining to moody, candle-lit vibes.

Step into a jungle paradise with a panoramic view of Sydney’s city skyline at The Butler – come for the sunset view and stay for a spicy margarita or two!

Enjoy seasonal small plates and natural wines on intimate outdoor benches at Dear Sainte Eloise. Bistro Rex on Macleay Street presents a fresh take on the Parisian bistro: marble interiors, steak frites and a loyal local following. Nearby, Macleay St Bistro is the moodier, older cousin where you’ll ﬁnd elevated French dishes and biodynamic wines. It’s a must-visit institution. Other restaurants such as The Apollo, Franca, Cho Cho San and Fratelli Paradiso round out the dining scene with di erent cuisines on show.

For a nightcap, The Roosevelt takes its name from the 1940s Kings Cross gangster bar and oozes old-school glamour with theatrical cocktails and a serious whisky list, and Piccolo Bar brings a slice of Italian culture to Roslyn Street. Intimate, classic and steeped in local history, it has been serving aperitivo for more than 70 years.

Potts Point Village is a unique precinct where historical charm and modern ﬂair blend seamlessly, charming residents and visitors with its Euro-style brasseries, fashion-forward boutiques and picture-perfect streets.

Manly & Northern Beaches

» On the northern edge of Sydney is a string of spectacular beachside suburbs that will make you feel a million miles away from the city.

Jump on one of Sydney’s famous ferries and head across the harbour to Manly. This laid-back suburb is surrounded by water, with the harbour on the west and a huge ocean beach to the east. It’s a favourite of

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1. Snorkel at Shelly Beach, o the southern end of Manly, where the calm waters are teeming with ﬁsh. Join a tour with Ecotreasures for a guided adventure. ecotreasures.com.au

2. Catch a wave at the birthplace of Australian surﬁng, Freshwater Beach. Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku surfed in front of thousands of spectators here in 1914. Beginners can take a lesson with Manly Surf School. manlysurfschool.com

3. Take a tour of Q Station, the historic quarantine centre perched on North Head that housed new arrivals to Sydney from the 1830s until 1983. qstation.com.au

4. Play a game of beach volleyball on Manly Beach. Eight courts are set up on the sand year-round and are free to use.

5. Tackle the Manly to Spit Walk, a 10-kilometre trail that winds through the inner harbour, past gorgeous beaches, historic lighthouses and scenic lookouts.

surfers, snorkellers, families and anyone looking for a little getaway in the heart of the city. Manly is the start of a 30-kilometre stretch of coastline known as the Northern Beaches. This is truly another side of Sydney, a series of small coastal communities more akin to Queensland than the capital. Admire the multimillion-dollar waterfront mansions, surf at secluded breaks and soak up the sun.

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Felons Brewing Co. Grab a wharfside table and try award-winning beers alongside a curated menu of locally sourced ingredients while enjoying the view. felonsbrewingco.com.au

2. 4 Pines Brewpub. The original Manly craft brewery (there are now at least nine) and the birthplace of one of Australia’s most popular craft beer brands. 4pinesbeer.com.au

3. Garﬁsh. Exceptional seafood, grilled, spiced or wood-roasted, served in a breezy dining room overlooking the harbour. garﬁsh.com.au

4. The Boathouse Shelly Beach. A casual café and kiosk just steps from the sand, perfect for everything from co ee to cocktails. theboathousesb.com.au

5. Pilu at Freshwater. Stylish Sardinian ﬁne dining overlooking the water – a favourite destination for a long lunch. pilu.com.au

6. Norma’s Deli. If you like yia-yia’s food then this Greek-Australian semi-subterranean diner will do the trick. normasdeli.com

MANLY SURF SCHOOL

4 PINES BREWPUB

Balmain & Rozelle

» If you want to discover how Sydneysiders really live, in less than a 10-minute ferry ride you’ll discover the unique villages of Balmain and Rozelle.

Linked by one road, Darling Street, Balmain and neighbouring Rozelle are bursting with pubs, cafes, art and fashion. Explore one or more of the historical pubs – there is literally one on every corner – or dine out in one of the many cafes and restaurants. With more than nine harbourside parks, grab a picnic or some takeaway and explore the waterside tranquillity of these suburbs.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1. Take a stroll through a harbourside park, from Ballast Point Park to Balmain East. The coastline here is the best Sydney has to o er. Pack a picnic and soak up the views.

2. Hunt for vintage fashion, with Rozelle Collectors Markets and a street full of second-hand fashion shops in Rozelle that are sure to tick your sustainable-fashion box. rozellecollectorsmarket.com.au

3. Explore the pubs – there are 19 heritage licensed establishments, one at every corner, where there’s local brew, live music and ﬁne food to discover. balmainrozelle.org.au

4. Shop the high street for unique ﬁnds in fashion, jewellery and homewares. Along Darling Street from Balmain East to Rozelle, you’ll discover countless treasures.

5. Grab a coffee in the suburb known for its cafe culture. There’s no shortage of choices. From early breakfast to long lunches, there are a plethora of cafes to choose from.

TOP 5 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Casa Esquina. This landmark building is a site with a rich culinary history, and has been transformed into a hacienda with ﬁre-cooked Argentinian food as the focus. casaesquina.au

2. White Bay Brewery. Enjoy hand-crafted beers in the brewery, located inside a 150-year-old steel mill, a site that also houses the taproom for the enjoyment of the local community and beer-loving visitors. whitebay.beer

3. The Dry Dock. Balmain’s oldest licensed pub, established in 1857, has recently had a milestone transformation. thedrydock.com.au

4. Corner Bar. In the heart of Rozelle, this bar o ers a rustic café atmosphere with a hearty menu. Come nightfall, Corner Bar transforms into a cosy and intimate wine and cocktail bar. cornerbarrozelle.com.au

5. Bistro by Manu. Spearheaded by renowned chef Manu Feildel, the restaurant at the Red Lion Hotel brings a touch of Paris to Rozelle with a mouthwatering menu of traditional fare. redlionrozelle.com.au

THE DRY DOCK

Western Sydney

» There’s a lot more to Sydney than just its magnificent coastline. Head inland to discover a different side of the city.

It might not be as famous as the waterfront side of the city, but there’s plenty to entice visitors to Western Sydney. From the sky-high towers and hidden small bars of Parramatta, Sydney’s second CBD, to its lush green spaces, multicultural neighbourhoods and action-packed adventures, you can discover something new every day. Immerse yourself in the arts at Casula Powerhouse, catch a show at the Riverside Theatre or learn about ancient cultural traditions at Muru Mittigar.

Western Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse areas in Australia, with its residents hailing from every corner of the globe. That makes for a seriously delicious food scene, with different suburbs specialising in local cuisines. Try Harris Park for Indian, Auburn for Persian, Strathfield and Eastwood for Korean, Cabramatta for Vietnamese, and Lakemba for Lebanese.

HOW TO GET THERE

Catch the train from Central Station to Parramatta, which takes around one hour. You can also catch the RiverCat ferry between Circular Quay and Parramatta Wharf.

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

1. Get your heart racing. Western Sydney is the place for adventurers with whitewater rafting, indoor skydiving, and jetpack flying above the river. penrithwhitewater.com.au; ifly.com.au; jetpackadventures.com.au

2. Featherdale Wildlife Park. Explore Australian bushland and get closer to over 260 Aussie native species in the heart of Western Sydney. More than 68 endangered species live at Featherdale. featherdale.com.au

3. Follow the Great River Walk, an eightkilometre path that runs beside and across the Nepean River. It has lovely views of the Blue Mountains, picnic spots, playgrounds and lookouts along the way. visitpenrith.com.au

4. Explore the Blue Mountains, one of Australia’s most famous wilderness areas, on the edge of Western Sydney. Head to Scenic World to see this majestic landscape. scenicworld.com.au

5. Visit two of Australia’s oldest buildings: Old Government House in Parramatta (circa 1799) and Elizabeth Farm in Rosehill (circa 1793). nationaltrust.org.au; mhnsw.au

PENRITH WHITEWATER OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE

TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

1. Chatkazz. Authentic Indian street food (with more than 200 dishes on the menu) in Harris Park, known as Sydney’s Little India. chatkazz.com.au

2. Eat Street Parramatta. Take your pick along Church Street, packed with restaurants from every corner of the globe. atparramatta.com/church-street

3. Nick & Nora’s. A little slice of the 1920s golden age on a rooftop in Parramatta. Think champagne towers and caviar. nickandnoras.com.au

4. Rusty Penny Brewery. Sip small-batch beers and tuck into Texas BBQ right in the middle of this working brewery in Penrith. rustypennybrewing.com.au

5. The Paper Mill. Four different eateries inside a restored heritage building on the banks of the Georges River in Liverpool. thepapermillfood.com

6. Misc. In the middle of historic Parramatta Park, this new venue offers inspired modern Middle Eastern breakfast and lunch menus. miscparramatta.com.au

EAT STREET PARRAMATTA

PARRAMATTA RIVER

NICK & NORA’S

SIGHTSEEING

There’s so much to see in the Harbour City. From spectacular gardens, galleries and historic sights just steps from your cruise ship to the city’s smaller neighbourhoods with their distinctive personalities, Sydney charms every visitor. Find fun things to do with the family, from calm swimming spots to thrilling theme parks and animal encounters. We share our pick of Sydney’s gorgeous beaches and show you where to enjoy the city’s most scenic walks. There are also plenty of free sightseeing options, meaning you won’t have to break the budget to experience the best the city has to offer.

Go City

Save up to 50% on Sydney attractions including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Tower Eye and more

BRIDGECLIMB SYDNEY

PHOTO: DESTINATION NSW; SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

Around the harbour

» Many of Sydney’s iconic sights are just a few steps from where cruise ships dock at the Overseas Passenger Terminal. (If you’re lucky, you might even have a five-star view of the Sydney Opera House from your cabin window.) Take a stroll around the shores of Sydney Harbour and soak up the city’s most spectacular attractions.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

One of the most famous buildings in the world, the Sydney Opera House is an instantly recognisable symbol of the city. Beneath its iconic sails, the storied concert halls host more than 40 performances a week with theatre, music, opera, dance and more. If you don’t have time for a show, join a guided tour to go behind the scenes and see how the magic happens. You can also dine at the exceptional Bennelong restaurant that sits beneath the dramatic cathedral ceilings.

Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

Affectionately known as The Coathanger, the Sydney Harbour Bridge has been spanning the two sides of the water for 100 years. A pedestrian footpath runs along one side of the roadway, offering a unique perspective on the city below. But for the most spectacular views, join BridgeClimb Sydney and head all the way to the top. The thrilling climb along the arches to the 134-metre summit

runs every day and takes 2.5-3.5 hours.

BridgeClimb, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks, (02) 8274 7777, bridgeclimb.com

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN & THE DOMAIN

Most of the eastern headland of Sydney Harbour is covered by the lush greenery of Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. The oldest botanic garden in the country, it is made up of 15 themed gardens with more than 27,000 plants from around the world. Visit the rotating exhibitions inside The Calyx or join the free guided tours held every day. Next door is The Domain, a grand outdoor event space that hosts huge concerts, opera and festivals, and is also home to the Art Gallery of NSW.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney, (02) 9231 8111, botanicgardens.org.au

ON THE WATER

Multi-award-winning Captain Cook Cruises offers premium dining, sightseeing and wildlife experiences with more than 20 cruises departing daily from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. Journey Beyond offers lunch and dinner cruises aboard the 78ft luxury cruiser, Spirit of Migloo, while Tribal Warrior offers cultural, themed and special event cruises aboard the “big canoe”, Mari Nawi. Fantasea Cruising has harbour hopper sightseeing cruises and whale-watching trips. Captain Cook Cruises, (02) 9206 1111, captaincook.com.au; Fantasea, 1800 326 822, fantasea.com.au; Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney, 1300 460 400, journeybeyondcruises.com; Tribal Warrior, (02) 9699 3491, tribalwarrior.org

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

OPERA BAR

The most beautiful walks

» Sydney is spectacular on foot. From winding trails around the harbour to grand clifftop paths and inner-city culture crawls, walking is the best way to see the city.

BONDI TO COOGEE COASTAL WALK 6KM / 2HR

Easily one of the world’s best walks, this glorious trail winds between two of Sydney’s best beaches, along windswept clifftops, through pockets of bushland and even beside a vast 19th-century cemetery. Take your time and break the journey with a dip in the ocean. bonditocoogeewalk.com

HERMITAGE FORESHORE TRACK 1.8KM / 1HR

A short, well-shaded coastal walk around the Vaucluse foreshore that’s mostly on a raised boardwalk, this is a great walk for families or those who prefer to take it easy. You’ll get to admire multi-million-dollar waterfront mansions and historic houses and can stop for a swim at any of the five beaches along the way.

GLEBE FORESHORE WALK 2.2KM / 1HR

Starting at Bicentennial Park (right across the water from the White Bay Cruise Terminal), this easy trail travels along the peaceful inner harbour. Expect to see people fishing off the concrete stairs, kids riding bikes and plenty of friendly dogs. It finishes at the Sydney Fish Market in Pyrmont, so you can refuel with a delicious seafood feast.

MANLY TO SPIT WALK 10KM / 4HR

You’ll be amazed at how much pristine bushland there is right in the centre of the city. This walk takes you around the northern edge of Sydney Harbour, encompassing subtropical forest, beautiful bays, historic lighthouses and even Aboriginal rock engravings.

SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE TO SOUTH HEAD 18KM / 8HR

If you have the time (and the fitness) this walk covers all the Sydney highlights. Starting at Circular Quay, you’ll walk past the Sydney Opera House, through the Royal Botanic Garden, through the ritzy suburbs of Double Bay and Vaucluse, and into the Sydney Harbour National Park. Finish at South Head, where the harbour meets the ocean.

SYDNEY CULTURE WALKS

Download the free Sydney Culture Walks app and take a self-guided tour through the city’s best art, architecture and history. There are more than 500 sites included and a huge range of walks that connect them, helping you discover the stories of the city step by step. Art lovers should try the Sydney Sculpture Walk and history buffs will like the Colony Tour. city.sydney/culture-walk-app

MANLY TO SPIT

BONDI TO COOGEE

Five of the best beaches

» Every visitor to Sydney should dip their toes in the Pacific Ocean at least once. With more than 100 beaches and some 30 ocean pools along the coast, you’re spoilt for choice.

BONDI

The most famous beach in Australia is also the closest to the Sydney CBD. This golden sweep of sand is regularly packed with locals and tourists soaking up the sun, splashing in the rock pools and catching the waves. Keep an eye out for the Bondi Rescue lifeguards who keep swimmers safe 365 days per year.

MANLY

Stretching for more than two kilometres, you’ll always find a quiet patch of sand at Manly. The beach is recognised as a World Surfing Reserve and the incredible waves are suitable for beginners, experts and everyone in between. Walk around to Shelly Beach to snorkel in the protected crystal-clear waters that are teeming with fish and marine life.

BALMORAL

The grandest of the harbour beaches, Balmoral has more than a kilometre of sand across two curved

bays, fronting water that’s as still as a swimming pool. It’s perfect for water sports of all kinds; try snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and even sailing.

COOGEE

A perfect slice of Sydney’s laid-back beach lifestyle, Coogee is another of the best beaches in the Eastern Suburbs. Sheltered by the rocky Wedding Cake Island offshore, the waters are reliably calm and great for both swimming and surfing. There are three ocean pools along the southern edge of the beach including McIver’s Baths, the only rock pool in Australia that’s open only to women and children.

CAMP COVE

A calm harbour beach close to the southern entrance to Sydney Harbour, Camp Cove is a local favourite. It’s a great option for families (or those who aren’t confident swimmers) and the still waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Then stretch your legs along the pretty South Head Heritage Trail through Sydney Harbour National Park, which runs just behind the sand.

BONDI BEACH

COOGEE BEACH

Family fun in Sydney

» Sydney is a great city for families with plenty to entertain the young and young at heart. From our famous beaches to animal encounters and interactive museums, the Harbour City is packed with fun.

BEST BEACHES

The calm harbour beaches are perfect for kids – try Camp Cove, Parsley Bay, Redleaf, Balmoral and Chinamans Beach. In the east, Clovelly has a long, sheltered bay lined with concrete platforms for easy entry. More conﬁdent swimmers will like Coogee and Bondi. Wherever you are, look out for lifeguards and always swim between the red and yellow ﬂags.

TALK TO THE ANIMALS

Little animal lovers will be captivated by Taronga Zoo where gira es look out over Sydney Harbour, rare Sumatran tigers snooze in the sun and seals frolic in front of glass in the walkthrough enclosure. Get up close to koalas, kangaroos, wombats and crocodiles at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and

take a boat ride through the penguin enclosure at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. In Western Sydney, Sydney Zoo is home to more than 4000 animals and at Featherdale Wildlife Park you can see more than 260 native species in their natural bushland habitat.

THRILLS AND SPILLS

You’ll spot the huge smiling face of Luna Park as you sail into Sydney Harbour. The park ﬁrst opened in 1935 so there’s a fun mix of vintage, Coney Islandstyle attractions and modern, thrills-and-spills rides. Kids will love the chance to snap a selﬁe with their favour superhero at Madame Tussauds or scream themselves hoarse on a speedy spin around the harbour with Oz Jet Boat. For something a bit slower, you can head up Sydney Tower Eye for some incredible 360-degree views or take a lunch cruise of the harbour with Journey Beyond.

CULTURE FOR KIDS

Marvel at the world’s ﬁrst life-size, anatomically correct model of a Tyrannosaurus rex at the Australian Museum, then let the kids get their hands dirty in the interactive Burra play space. Climb aboard a replica of the 18th-century HMB Endeavour or go below on the HMAS Onslow submarine at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Follow the Kids’ Trail at Hyde Park Barracks to learn what life was like for convicts in the early years of the Australian colony.

TARONGA ZOO EXPRESS

The easy and fun way to travel to world-famous Taronga Zoo, situated right on Sydney Harbour’s north shore, is by Captain Cook Cruises’ Taronga Zoo Express. Rocket ferries depart regularly throughout the day from Circular Quay Wharf 6, including return ferry, zoo entry and direct access from the lower entrance, metres from the wharf.

CAMP COVE

LUNA PARK

PHOTOS:

See more, spend less

» Explore Sydney’s best attractions and make lasting memories for less with Merlin’s Combo Passes, writes Isabelle James.

From scaling new heights on the observation deck at Sydney Tower Eye to snapping a selfie with your favourite celebrities at Madame Tussauds, meeting real-life furry friends at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo or coming face-to-fin with grey nurse sharks at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium – a selection of Sydney’s best family attractions are within walking distance from each other. With the Sydney Big Ticket combo pass in hand, you can unlock the experiences at the lowest prices.

See Sydney from above

The Sydney Tower Eye is the city’s tallest building and has been an iconic part of the skyline for more than 40 years. Located 250 metres above the city streets, you can enjoy unrivalled 360-degree views of the city and beyond, including breathtaking panoramic views of the skyline, sweeping from the sparkling shores of Bondi to the majestic Blue Mountains.

How to get there: The Sydney Tower Eye is conveniently located on Level 5 of Westfield Sydney Shopping Centre in the heart of the CBD. It is in a prime location between several train stations, including Town Hall, Martin Place and St James. Hop on the Metro to Martin Place or Gadigal, or take the Light Rail to Town Hall Station. There are also plenty of bus options nearby.

Dive into an underwater world

Explore Australia’s most vital marine ecosystems, from coastal rockpools to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, at SEA LIFE Sydney in Darling Harbour. The brand-new Rockpool zone reveals the ocean’s tiny titans’ secrets to survival. Experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef right here in Sydney at the mesmerising Day and Night on the Reef exhibit – it’s the largest in the world.

SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM

SYDNEY TOWER EYE

Walk through the motion-sense display to interact with the rare phenomenon of bioluminescence and learn about the life cycle of a turtle, before snapping a photo at the giant frozen wave.

Rub shoulders with the stars

Step up and meet your idols at Madame Tussauds, where they’re immortalised in wax. Where else can you see Beyoncé, Harry Styles and Batman all under one roof? The Daintree Rainforest has been recreated in the new Wild Australia Zone, where Australia’s most beloved family, the Irwins, also stand. Admire the terrifying jaws of a saltwater crocodile (crikey!) and discover all of Robert Irwin’s top photography tips for capturing the beauty of Australia’s wildlife.

Encounter native animals

Get ready to go wild at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, where you come face-to-face with some of the country’s most fascinating native animals.

Feed Princess, the resident southern cassowary, who looks like she came straight from Jurassic Park, thanks to her bright blue feathers and prehistoric charm.

Meet the icons of the Australian bush at the Koala Photo Experience, where you can snap

the perfect pic with one of the country’s cutest creatures. Stroll around the Kangaroo Walkabout and see the fascinating marsupials hop, graze and lounge around. Pop your head into the Devil’s Den to catch a glimpse of the mischievous Tasmanian devils, Nara and Bluey – you may even catch them in a game of tug of war.

How to get there: Conveniently located in Darling Harbour, the Merlin venues are a short walk away from Wynyard Station. You can also catch a ferry from Circular Quay to Barangaroo Wharf for brilliant harbour views during your journey. Several bus routes also pass through Darling Harbour.

DID YOU KNOW

By upgrading from a General Admission ticket to a Sydney Big Ticket combo, you can unlock epic savings of up to 60% and access up to all four of Merlin’s incredible attractions.

MADAME TUSSAUDS

WILD LIFE SYDNEY ZOO

Hear stories of the Gadigal, Guringai, Wangal, Gammeraigal & Wallumedegal people of Sydney Harbour & learn the Aboriginal names & meanings of significant Sydney landmarks, before stepping ashore on Be-lang-le-wool (Clark Island)

You’ll learn about life pre-colonisation, our coastal lifestyle, traditional fishing methods & food gathering techniques. The journey culminates with an exhilarating Aboriginal cultural per formance, where you’ll witness traditional dances and music that celebrate the rich heritage of the First Nations people. This immersive experience offers a rare and authentic glimpse into the living culture of Sydney’s Aboriginal communities

INDIGENOUS CULTURE

To form a richer, more resonant picture of Sydney, you’ll need to seek out the enduring wisdom and tradition of the world’s oldest living culture. The Gadigal People of the Eora Nation are the traditional custodians of the land that we now call Sydney.

Many sites around the harbour are of cultural signiﬁcance to Indigenous Australians. For instance, Bennelong Point, where Sydney Opera House now stands, was an important gathering point for the Gadigal. The following experiences and tours allow visitors to engage with Aboriginal culture, providing a stronger sense of place and connection to Sydney.

TRIBAL WARRIOR CULTURAL CRUISE

INDIGENOUS CULTURE

Cultural experiences

» Explore the rich traditions, spiritual practices and profound connection to Country of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples. From tours to guided walks and harbour cruises, you can see plenty of Sydney while learning about this fascinating culture.

TRIBAL WARRIOR CULTURAL CRUISE

Explore Sydney Harbour onboard Mari Nawi for a two-hour cruise that takes place on both land and sea. Alongside captivating cultural performances, learn about fishing methods, food-gathering techniques and sustainable practices before delving into the lifestyle of a pre-European Aboriginal coastal settlement on Be-lang-le-wool (Clark Island). Sydney Harbour, (02) 9699 3491, tribalwarrior.org

ABORIGINAL HARBOUR HERITAGE TOUR

Peer through the lens of the local Gadigal people on this guided one-hour tour of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Trace the Sydney Harbour foreshore while hearing stories of Indigenous lifestyle, traditions and history to deepen your understanding of how Sydney came to be. Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney, (02) 9231 8111, botanicgardens.org.au

THE ROCKS ABORIGINAL DREAMING TOUR

Join a 90-minute walkabout in The Rocks and venture into Dreamtime. You’ll uncover how the Indigenous worldview shaped ideas of the billionyear-old natural landscape and its relationship to the skies and waterways of Sydney and beyond. Your Aboriginal guide will give you a keen understanding of this cornerstone of Aboriginal culture on a twicedaily tour that departs at 10:30am and 1:30pm. The Rocks, Sydney, 0403 686 433, dreamtimesouthernx.com.au

BURRAWA ABORIGINAL CLIMB

Scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a First Nations storyteller and learn about Indigenous landmarks, such as Bennelong and Barangaroo, while deepening your understanding of the origins behind place names around the water’s edge. Sydney Harbour, (02) 8274 7777, bridgeclimb.com

BADU GILI: HEALING SPIRIT

Nightly from sunset (except during Vivid Sydney), Sydney Opera House’s emblematic sails come to life with a free six-minute light projection exploring First Nations stories and celebrating Indigenous artists. Bennelong Point, 1300 764 849, sydneyoperahouse.com

BUSH

Exploring another culture through your appetite is always an essential part of any trip. Redfern’s Bush is the best place for an adventure into First Nations food, with an affordable menu framed by design references to Australia’s bush heartland and native flora and fauna. The concise menu is packed with Indigenous produce, from Warrigal greens used in pasta dishes to wattle seed used in desserts. Don’t miss the red pepper kangaroo tail, best enjoyed with a side of pepperberry chips.

55 George St, Redfern, 0432 439 966, bush-group.com

THE ROCKS ABORIGINAL DREAMING TOUR

BUSH

Galleries and exhibitions

ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES

For more than 30 years, Aboriginal Art Galleries has been supporting Indigenous art. Located on the second floor of the historic Queen Victoria Building in Sydney CBD, the vibrant gallery showcases a variety of crafts, tools and artifacts such as didgeridoos alongside beautiful paintings.

The QVB, 455 George St, Sydney, (02) 9264 9018, aboriginalartgalleries.com.au

BOOMALLI ABORIGINAL ARTISTS COOPERATIVE

Boomalli is the longest-running Aboriginal-owned and run arts organisation in the state. Founded in Redfern but located in Leichhardt, the sizable gallery hosts regular exhibitions and community events while providing space for artists to work and tell the stories behind their art. 55-59 Flood Street, Leichhardt, (02) 9560 2541, boomalli.com.au.

YIRIBANA GALLERY

Located in the Art Gallery of NSW’s Naala Badu building, this dedicated gallery highlights the breadth of Indigenous art, resting on the notion of burbangana, meaning “take hold of my hand and help me up”. Connection sits at the centre of each piece. Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney, 1800 679 278, artgallery.nsw.gov.au

More than 2000 artworks representing more than 200 artists give this award-winning gallery one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in NSW. The three-floor gallery has incredible scope, showcasing both established and emerging artists with an overarching mission of support and education. 680 Darling St, Rozelle, (02) 9555 5283, kateowengallery.com

We acknowledge and pay our respect to the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of New South Wales and all Aboriginal Elders, past, present and emerging.

KATE OWEN GALLERY

YIRIBANA GALLERY

BOOMALLI

KATE OWEN GALLERY

YOLŊU POWER THE ART OF YIRRKALA

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Sydney is strewn with iconic cultural institutions, independent art galleries and majestic museums. From cutting-edge contemporary art to the stunning breadth of Indigenous talent to more sombre recollections of our colonial history, Sydney is a place that has inspired many artists, designers and authors. For a slice of convict history, there’s Hyde Park Barracks Museum. Love the classics? Stroll the elegant halls of the Art Gallery of NSW and see its extension, Sydney Modern. Or get up close to creatures who walked the continent millennia ago at the Australian Museum. We’ll show you the way.

ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

The classics

» If you’re short on time and unsure what to see, these galleries and heritage sites will give you a great Sydney snapshot.

ART GALLERY OF NSW

If you only have the time to visit one major gallery, this is the leading museum of art in Sydney, with important collections of work from Australia, Europe and Asia. See works by some of Australia’s most famous artists, including Brett Whiteley, John Olsen and Sidney Nolan, as well as a regular rotation of globally significant contemporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the architectural wonders of the Sydney Modern building, which opened in 2022 to mark the gallery’s 150th anniversary.

Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney, 1800 679 278, artgallery.nsw.gov.au

HYDE PARK BARRACKS MUSEUM

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed museum tells the story of Australia’s convict beginnings and its powerful imprint on Indigenous Australia. Cutting-edge visual and audio technology allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of some of the 500,000 British convicts who were held here.

The innovative methods and mediums used to tell their tales are almost as incredible as the historical facts themselves.

Hyde Park Barracks Museum, Queens Square, Macquarie St, Sydney, (02) 8239 2311, mhnsw.au/visit-us/hyde-park-barracks

AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM

Inside this landmark building is Australia’s very first museum, established in 1827, which celebrates the natural history and culture of Australia and the Pacific. Expand your understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures with Waranara Tours, a unique introduction to objects from the museum’s collections, led by a First Nations guide (Wednesdays and Saturdays).

Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney, (02) 9320 6000, australian.museum

HYDE PARK BARRACKS

AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

Sail through Sydney’s maritime past at the Australian National Maritime Museum on spectacular Darling Harbour. Chart your course through a treasure trove of ocean wonders and nautical vessels. Climb aboard a replica of Captain James Cook’s tall ship or take a deep dive into oceanic warfare inside a real-life submarine.

Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, Darling Harbour, (02) 9298 3777, sea.museum

THE MINT

This colonial structure is Sydney’s oldest public building and boasts a rich history. Originally built in 1816 as a hospital for 200 convict patients –financed with 45,000 gallons of rum – the ‘rum’ hospital had its southern wing converted into a branch of the British Royal Mint during the NSW gold rush in 1851.

The Mint, Macquarie St, Sydney, (02) 8239 2288, mhnsw.au/visit-us/the-mint

ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES

Inside the historic Queen Victoria Building is a renowned art gallery dedicated to established and emerging Australian Indigenous artists. At Aboriginal Art Galleries, you can admire a selection of unique paintings, authentic didgeridoos,

handmade crafts and traditional artefacts.

Aboriginal Art Galleries, Shop 47-51, Level 2, Queen Victoria Building, Sydney, (02) 9264 9018, aboriginalartgalleries.com.au

STATE LIBRARY OF NSW

Enrich your mind inside Australia’s oldest library. Contained within are galleries, reading rooms and more than six million objects such as books, manuscripts and maps. The library also hosts regular talks from authors, as well as exhibitions from local artists. Be sure to check the library’s website before you visit to see what’s on.

State Library of NSW, 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney, (02) 9273 1414, sl.nsw.gov.au

ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Sydney stories

» As the oldest city in Australia, Sydney has a fascinating and sometimes dark history –from its convict days to the roaring 1920s and beyond.

SUSANNAH PLACE MUSEUM

Take a peek into the lives of the working-class families who called these four pocket-sized terraces home from 1844 onwards. Located in Sydney’s oldest suburb, The Rocks, this is a chance to see how early residents lived, worked and played in tiny backyards, open wash houses, basement kitchens and modest parlour rooms. Guided tours only.

Susannah Place Museum, 58-64 Gloucester St, The Rocks, (02) 9241 1893, mhnsw.au/visit-us/ susannah-place

JUSTICE AND POLICE MUSEUM

Sydney’s first European settlers were mainly criminals transported from the UK, so the city has a colourful gangland history. Step back in time within this former police court and holding cells, to learn stories of the guilty and innocent, and admire intriguing mugshots from the 1920s.

Justice and Police Museum, Albert St, Circular Quay, (02) 9252 1144, mhnsw.au/visit-us/ justice-and-police-museum

MUSEUM OF SYDNEY

The name says it all. This museum is dedicated to comprehensively detailing stories of the city’s past, from its people to its places to its culture. The building’s architecture in itself draws inspiration from the history of the site, weaving in remains of the inaugural Government House, circa 1788. Don’t miss the intricate model of the 11 ships of the First Fleet.

Museum of Sydney, cnr Bridge St & Phillip St, Sydney, (02) 9251 5988, mhnsw.au/visit-us/ museum-of-sydney

The Museum of Sydney sits atop the ruins of the first Government House, built in 1788.

JUSTICE AND POLICE MUSEUM

MUSEUM OF SYDNEY

White Rabbit Gallery houses almost 3000 pieces from 750 artists.

Contemporary

» From modern art to cutting-edge design and the future of fashion, these are the galleries where you’ll find the very best of contemporary culture.

WHITE RABBIT GALLERY

This is a hidden gem in Sydney’s Chippendale, an easy 10-minute walk from Central Station, and it holds an important place in the global arts scene. Arts patron and gallery co-founder Judith Neilson has stewardship over one of the world’s most significant collections of contemporary Chinese art, which she shares with the public through major exhibitions that rotate every six months. The fourlevel space is also an architectural gem in its own right, designed by local starchitect William Smart. Be sure to check opening times before you visit, as the gallery closes for an extended period between each exhibition.

White Rabbit Gallery, 30 Balfour St, Chippendale, (02) 8399 2867, whiterabbitcollection.org

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART (MCA)

With a harbourside location and impressive Art Deco exterior, the MCA is a must-see. Filled with eye-catching modern art, there are more than 4000 artworks by Aussie artists and an extensive collection of Indigenous art. The rooftop cafe has sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and the gallery

shop is brimming with take-home treasures. Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George St, The Rocks, (02) 9245 2400, mca.com.au

ARTSPACE

An integral part of Sydney’s art fabric – having long provided residences and studio spaces for local artists – Artspace has undergone a transformation in recent years. This impressive brick building on the foreshore is now one of the better spaces in the city to see contemporary art. Programming includes touring exhibitions alongside new commissions and performances. Within the local art world, Artspace is known as a safe space in which to test new ideas. Artspace, 43-51 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo, (02) 9356 0555, artspace.org.au

WHITE RABBIT GALLERY

ARTSPACE

FOOD & DRINK

There’s something special about Sydney’s food and drink scene. In recent years, a new vanguard of young chefs has been blending old and new techniques into a cultural melting pot of ﬂavour. And don’t get us started on the bar renaissance. Sydney venues capitalise on the city’s extraordinary views and great climate with rooftop bars and openair terraces. From legendary time-honoured restaurants to dining disruptors, Sydney caters to all tastes. And remember: happy hour is serious business. To whet your appetite, there’s always a cold beer or carefully crafted cocktail to enjoy. We’ll see you at the bar.

Rydo

Need a ride home after dinner? Book your taxi with Rydo.

ROYAL PALACE, CHINATOWN

Modern icons

» You can eat your way around the world through multicultural Sydney’s diverse and delicious restaurant scene.

URSULA’S

Chef Phil Wood’s Sydney comeback quickly became a staple of the city’s elegant dining. The chic corner terrace house in Paddington is ﬁlled with custom furniture and cult glassware, and the menu is driven by fresh Australian produce prepared with classic European techniques. Although the menu tends to change with the seasons, there are some reliable signature dishes – such as a Moreton Bay bug pasta with crustacean butter and a dessert of golden syrup dumplings with malt cream.

92 Hargrave St, Paddington, 0499 525 235, ursulas.com.au

OLYMPUS

It may have only opened in December 2024, but its 50-year-old bougainvillea, which sits in the centre of the restaurant, is already a recognisable star. From the team behind The Apollo, Olympus was an instant hit online and for good reason. More than 40 delectable dishes are on o er, including kokkoretsi served just as you’d ﬁnd it across mainland Greece.

2 Baptist St, Redfern, (02) 8354 0649, olympusdining.com.au

ESTER

Everyone from Nigella Lawson to Neil Perry has sung Ester’s praises over the years, with Matt Lindsay’s wood-ﬁred kitchen building a reputation for perfection since opening in 2013. The elegant,

understated dining room flickers with well-placed candles and smart lighting, making this neighbourly diner a top choice for special occasions. The team clearly know their way around a wood-fired grill, crisping edges and delivering textural perfection to star dishes like Yamba king prawns with fermented shrimp. Simplicity counts when you’ve got flawless technique and beautiful produce.

46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale, (02) 8068 8279, ester-restaurant.com.au

CAFE PACI

You don’t often find food quite like what Pasi Petänen is dishing up at his Newtown restaurant. With an irrepressible sense of creativity, the prolific Finnish chef presents a melting pot of ideas with an ever-changing menu of fascinating, artful dishes plated with unwavering confidence. The menu changes far too often for anyone to get attached to a certain dish, but you could expect exciting plates like generous potato dumplings stu ed with rich XO trout or Nigella Lawson’s favourite fermented carrot and nduja on rye bread.

131 King St, Newtown, 0402 392 189, cafepaci.com.au

OLYMPUS

URSULA’S

Budget bites

» Sydney might be full of fine dining in whitetablecloth restaurants but you can also grab an excellent feed for a budget price.

STR’EATS PASTA BAR

Nestled in the vibrant enclave of Chippendale’s Spice Alley, Str’Eats Pasta Bar stands as a testament to the fact that you don’t need to splurge to savour high-quality Italian fare. For just $10, you can indulge in a bowl of their Aglio & Olio – a dish that brings simplicity to new heights. Perfectly al dente handmade pasta, tossed with the holy trinity of garlic, chilli and parsley, all drizzled in luscious olive oil. It’s a symphony of flavours, giving of Sicilian streets and the sunlit Italian countryside.

24 Kensington St, Chippendale, instagram.com/ streatspastabar

CHON SIAM

If you’re seeking a punch of flavour as deep as any in a Thai night market back alley, look no further. This unassuming spot serves delicious Thai boat noodles with a rich broth spiced with cinnamon and star anise, with a tantalising splash of pig’s blood lending depth and complexity. With fish balls, tender pork and a medley of vegetables, this soup is a hearty, comforting choice – ideal for a light but satisfying lunch for just $7.50.

83 Campbell St, Haymarket, (02) 9212 6588

DOYLES ON THE WHARF

The legendary Doyles might be synonymous with upscale seafood dining, but their takeaway counter at Watsons Bay delivers a more casual but equally delightful experience. For just $21.90, you can enjoy their classic fish and chips, perfect for a beachside picnic. While the atmosphere might be more laidback than their restaurant, the quality remains exemplary. If the view of the harbour doesn’t impress you, the value definitely will.

Fishermans Wharf, Watsons Bay, doyles.com.au

CHARMHOR

In taste-filled Haymarket, CharmHor is a beacon of affordable yet authentic Thai cuisine. Their zaap hang kaihor (spicy dry black noodles) come with ground peanuts, dried shrimp, veggies and your choice of meat, all drenched in a spicy sauce that could make even a seasoned spice lover sweat. For the same price, the kai cheek mara – a shredded chicken soup with thin noodles, bitter melon and Chinese broccoli – offers a contrasting yet equally compelling option. At $10, both dishes echo simplicity and quality.

Shop 10, 79 Quay St, Haymarket, (02) 9212 3152, instagram.com/charmhorsyd

OLYMPIC MEATS

A new addition to Marrickville’s bourgeoning food scene, Olympic Meats might not look much from the outside, but it’s now drawing crowds from all over Sydney. Nothing on the menu is more than $21. The succulent chicken gyros melt in the mouth, and it’s worth getting an order of the pickled octopus

PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW

STR’EATS PASTA BAR

DOYLES ON THE WHARF

and chips fried in beef tallow. Bring your own bottle of wine – the only downside is that you can’t book so best get in early.

12 Dudley St, Marrickville, olympicmeats.shop

DERREL’S

Derrel’s, a hybrid takeaway joint and casual eatery, is slinging tasty comfort food with a modern twist. Their chip “putty”, drenched in creamy butterchicken sauce, is a delightful ode to both British and Indian cuisines. At $10, it’s an affordable, inventive blend of flavours that pays homage to Brendan King’s Anglo-Indian heritage and his grandpa Derrel. Whether you’re craving a late-night bite or a novel spin on a classic, this is the place to be. 89 Parramatta Rd, Camperdown, (02) 9072 7939, instagram.com/_derrels

MOTHER CHU’S

For those who appreciate Taiwanese street food, Mother Chu’s Taiwanese Gourmet offers a menu that’s both diverse and wallet-friendly. A Taiwanese beef pie at $9.30, egg pancake rolls at $7.50, or steamed buns filled with chicken or pork for just $5 each will make your taste buds dance with joy. Mother Chu’s is not just a place to eat – it’s a testament to the beauty of quick, delicious and affordable street food.

86-88 Dixon St, Haymarket, (02) 9211 0288, facebook.com/MyChuMama/

THE TAMALERIA & MEXICAN DELI

This tiny shopfront in Dulwich Hill serves up some of Sydney’s best traditional tamales. Rosa Cienfuegos’ warm, savoury and sweet tamales feature well-seasoned meat and vegetables baked in a starchy dough, encased in a corn husk. Ten dollars will get you your choice of tamale: chicken in green sauce, spicy Yucatan-style pulled pork, beef birria or refried black bean and jalapeno. While it may not make an entire meal, it will deliciously tide you over. 463 Marrickville Rd, Dulwich Hill, thetamaleriaandmexican.yumbojumbo.com.au

EMPEROR’S GARDEN

Finally, let’s not forget Emperor’s, home of beloved Sydney staple cream puffs. Priced at $4 for seven, these freshly baked puffs are a steal. Despite an outrage around their incremental price hikes – reflecting Sydney’s ever-increasing cost of living – these pastries remain a symbol of affordable indulgence. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh and hot, so keep an eye out for the temperature warning posted at the entrance.

75 Dixon St, Haymarket, (02) 9211 2135

DERREL’S

MOTHER CHU’S

THE TAMALERIA & MEXICAN DELI

Best cafés FOOD & DRINK

» For a family lunch and the best coffee on the planet, you can’t beat pulling up a chair at one of Sydney’s much-loved cafes.

TOBY’S ESTATE

The Chippendale flagship of this popular coffee shop chain has been crowned the World’s Best Coffee Shop 2025 and for good reason. There is an on-site roastery where coffee beans are freshly roasted each day before being transformed in front of your eyes at the island brew bar – angled overhead mirrors allow you to watch the baristas at work. For those not down with the lingo, the menu contains useful definitions so that you can pick your perfect blend from the extensive list with ease. Bagels, toasties, baguettes and pastries are also available.

32-36 City Road, Chippendale, tobysestate.com.au

FLOUR AND STONE

Not so much a café, but hands down this is an unmissable Sydney bakery. Everything owner Nadine Ingram touches is quite simply perfect, from delicate and zesty madeleines to rum-rich canelés to flaky, meaty pies. Scarce seating? No problem. The bakery is only a short walk from the Royal Botanic Garden, presenting a perfect opportunity for a top-notch picnic.

53 Riley St, Woolloomooloo, (02) 8068 8818, flourandstone.com.au

A.P HOUSE

On a sunny day, head to the rooftop of Paramount House Hotel in Surry Hills and you’ll find a California-inspired breakfast haven. A necessary pilgrimage for baked goods enthusiasts in Sydney, A.P Bakery’s popularity has led to a number of additional locations throughout the city, but the original is arguably still the best. The menu represents a mix of bakery staples and seasonal creative offerings.

Level 2, 80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills, apbakery.com.au

GOOD WAYS DELI

Sandwiches might be humble fare, but the ones slung by Good Ways Deli should not be underestimated. The menu is a neat one, restricted to less than 10 delicious sandwiches – all are done well and with native ingredients to boot. For example, the hero of the ‘Deli’ sandwich is the tender kangaroo mo'rtadella; the ‘Salad’ is schmeared with hearty mushroom paté; and the option to add apple to a deceptively simple cheese toastie should not be passed up. And if you manage to avoid the temptation of the sweet treats on display, such as the lamington with Davidson plum jam, we salute you.

1/20 Cooper St, Redfern, goodwaysdeli.com.au

PIÑA

Piña is where Sydney’s elite chefs go for breakfast. The laneway café mostly specialises in classic breakfast fare – scrambled eggs, bacon and egg rolls, granola and pancakes – though everything is done with an elevated twist. The coffee is also excellent. With your meal in trustworthy hands, you’re free to sit back and enjoy the people-watching along one of Potts Point’s more lively strips.

4/29 Orwell St, Potts Point, (02) 7251 8025, order.pinapottspoint.com.au

A.P HOUSE

HAY ST MARKET

Global flavours

» With an incredibly diverse and multicultural population, Sydney is the place to savour cuisines from all around the world.

SPICE ALLEY

Tucked down Kensington Street, you’ll find a red gateway that marks the entrance to Spice Alley. The paved laneway is filled with hawkerstyle Asian street-food eateries. Sit underneath a canopy of lanterns and fairy lights while savouring Singaporean dishes from Alex Lee Kitchen or Ginger & Spice, Thai noodles from Bang Luck or wontons and dumplings from Hong Kong Diner. Tabé-Ru, meanwhile, serves hand-crafted sushi rolls and sizzling yakitori and is the newest addition to Spice Alley.

18-20 Kensington Street, Chippendale, spicealley.com.au

HAY ST MARKET

More than 48 traders have assembled under one roof at this huge 3000-square-metre marketplace

in Haymarket, which gives London’s Borough Market and New York’s Chelsea Market a run for their money. Stop for coffee and cannoli at Biaggio, Turkish street food at GozleME, Indigenous cooking at Little Midden and a selection of Asian outlets curated by chef and restaurateur Luke Nguyen. Hay St Market is also fully licensed dining space with two bars if you’re just stopping by for a drink. 9/13 Hay Street, Haymarket, haystmarket.com.au

145 CHINATOWN

Often referred to as Eastwood Chinatown, this north-west suburb is known as both Chinatown and Koreatown, depending on which train exit you take. Head west and you’ll find mouthwatering menus of Chinese cuisine. From traditional dumpling houses and fine dining restaurants to bustling markets and lively nightlife spots, it’s a treasure trove of Asian shops and eateries. Take the T9 train line and alight at Eastwood to explore another of Sydney’s Chinatowns.

Rowe St and surrounds, Eastwood, eastwoodchinatown.com.au

HARRIS PARK (LITTLE INDIA)

Western Sydney’s Harris Park is a multicultural suburb that has earned a reputation as the city’s Little India. Wigram Street is lined with more than 20 eateries and shops, inspired by the Indian subcontinent. Dosa Hut is popular, with many diners naming the masala dosa as a must-try dish. Ginger Indian specialises in North Indian cuisine, while Chatkazz and Rocket Kulfi are the places to go for dessert.

Wigram Street, Harris Park, atparramatta.com

SPICE ALLEY

EXPLORE 145 CT EASTWOOD

145 C.T. also known as Eastwood Chinatown, is a vibrant district in Eastwood that embodies the spirit of resilience and ingenuity, bringing the essence of Eastern cultures to Western Sydney. It’s the go-to spot for restaurants, bars, and café culture, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.

NIGHTLIFE

Acity’s vibrancy lives or dies on its nightlife. And Sydney is on the cusp of its most important transformation yet. A concerted e ort to revive Sydney’s nightlife has started to bloom, rallying the city’s bars, pubs and nightclubs to pull the city into its next chapter – one that’s full of heaving danceﬂoors from a reinvigorated Darlinghurst to an only-just-getting-started Newtown. The next pages will tempt your desire to dance the night away, hopping between historic nightclubs in The Rocks, colourful cabaret lounges in Darlinghurst, Berlin-grade raves buried deep in the city and cocktail-fuelled city bars.

Rydo

Need a ride home after your night out? Book your taxi with Rydo.

Cool cocktails

» Sydney after dark runs on a heady cocktail of music, dancing and, well… cocktails.

PS40

Michael Chiem and Thor Bergquist’s handmade sodas are crafted with nuance and incredible depth. In their early days, Sydney’s smartest cocktail bars switched their stock of sugary syrups for their products and saw instant results. But it wasn’t until the duo opened PS40 that their genius was truly appreciated. Now it’s one of Sydney’s most reliable offerings, fusing sharp and distinctive cocktails such as the signature Africola – a heady build of coffee liqueur, native cola and hot coconut foam. 40 King St, Skittle Lane, Sydney, ps40bar.com

MAYBE SAMMY

Backed by a steady stream of international acclaim, Maybe Sammy thrives on its playful antics and immaculate hospitality. Dancing bartenders, bubble machines and party hats mix high- and low-brow for a winning formula. But the Wes Anderson shtick wouldn’t be as effective if the cocktails weren’t up to scratch. Thankfully, you’ve got some of the world’s best bartenders experimenting with cutting-edge techniques, animating cocktails

that use everything from yoghurt and banana water to black tea and shiso butter.

115 Harrington St, The Rocks, (02) 9241 4970, maybesammy.com

TAILOR ROOM

Tucked in the old cloakroom of one of what was once a notorious nightclub, Tailor Room is a sleek and seductive new bar that’s part of The Collective in The Rocks. To choose your cocktail, get your hands on the menu – literally. It is inspired by textures and, rather than listing ingredients, you select your drink according to the texture profile. Wool is smoky and warming, while Silk is smooth and light. No spoilers, you’ll have to go to try for yourself.

The Collective, 12-18 Argyle St, The Rocks, thecollectiverocks.com.au

DEAN & NANCY ON 22

Take a chance at Dean & Nancy and you could drink on the house. Order the beautifully balanced Rolling a Double – Havana 3, pineapple shrub, coconut water, Agricole rum – and you could win a free glass of bubbles. Or how about a coffee and Champagne cocktail, chased by a slick caviar Martini? This swanky rooftop bar, crowning the stylish A by Adina, is a dash of New York City zest and a sprinkle of Tokyo cool, mixed with Sydney’s relaxed hospitality and Maybe Sammy Group’s irrepressible energy. It’s impossible to have a bad night, especially when that grand piano starts to tinkle.

2 Hunter St, Sydney, (02) 9182 9500, deanandnancyon22.com.au

MAYBE SAMMY

DEAN & NANCY

Pumping pubs

» Bring your dancing shoes to Sydney’s best late-night pubs, grab a meal and enjoy some craft beer before hitting the dancefloor.

THE LANSDOWNE

When The Lansdowne opened in the early 1930s, the area was a carousel of blue-collar workers, students and criminals all married by the pub’s piercing sense of community. The grand threestorey Art Deco building, standing on the corner of Broadway and City Road, has been dedicated to inclusivity ever since – a throughline from the Sydney of then to the Sydney of now. When the city’s nightlife was thrown a curveball in the 2010s, the pub’s dingy dancefloor was a beacon of hope for locals, and that legacy tracks today with a regular schedule of live music, DJs and drag shows. 2-6 City Rd, Chippendale, (02) 7228 0021, thelansdownepub.com.au

GOLDEN SHEAF

The notorious Golden Sheaf has been a playground for Eastern Sydney since 1936. Five bars are bound together by a well-preserved heritage personality, best expressed by the fairy-lit courtyard where crowd-pleasing pub classics are the way to go before

shimmying onto the nearby dancefloor. The pub’s nightlife is most active on Wednesday and at the weekends, giving you a few options if you want to party in the swanky surrounds of Double Bay.

429 New South Head Rd, Double Bay, (02) 9327 5877, thegoldensheaf.com.au

MARLBOROUGH HOTEL

Newtown’s stalwart Marlborough Hotel sits on a spring of song and sweat. Affectionately known as “The Marly”, the pub opened in 1939 and has remained largely unchanged since, save for the basement party spot, Tokyo Sing Song, where a furious blend of party and performance turn every Saturday night into one of Sydney’s most eclectic club nights.

145 King St, Newtown, (02) 9519 1222, marlboroughhotel.com.au

THE ABERCROMBIE HOTEL

The Abercrombie Hotel dominated Sydney’s nightlife in the mid-2000s with weekly parties Purple Sneakers and S.A.S.H. New developments changed things in the following years, but a recent refresh has reimagined the corner pub as a futuristic nightclub by night. Now you’ll find multiple spaces designed for dancing well into the early hours of the morning, shouldering Sydney’s best commercial raves.

100 Broadway, Chippendale, (02) 8823 0555, abercrombie.sydney

THE MARLY

GOLDEN SHEAF

NIGHTLIFE

Rock on

» With rock and jazz bands, DJs and plenty of live music, Sydney’s small bars and pubs are a burgeoning scene for small and intimate gigs.

PHOENIX CENTRAL PARK

Phoenix Central Park is not a listening bar. It’s a cutting-edge, visually stunning sound room and performing arts theatre, initially founded by White Rabbit Gallery’s Judith Neilson AM. Conceived as an integrated performance space, garden and art gallery, it hosts free, acoustically perfect concerts from a great variety of artists in showcase-style concerts with a focus on immersion. These aren’t your typical seating arrangements. People spiral around the multicoloured space.

49 O’Connor St, Chippendale, phoenixcentralpark.com.au

FBR CAFE

A highly technical coffee shop that also hosts tightly packed, sardine-style raves? Now that’s something we’ve never seen before. Sydneysiders like to party in futuristic coffee shops thanks to FBR cafe, a 15seat space inside a tech-forward cube in Chambers Arcade. And while it’s a great place for really good Sydney coffee, every second Saturday brings a tightly packed 40-person rave with a hypnotic wash of neon green and both vinyl and digital DJs pumping until midnight.

Shop 9, 370 Pitt St, Sydney, instagram.com/fbc.cafe

PLEASURE CLUB

A former sex shop turned into a subterranean nightclub feels like something ripped from London’s Kings Cross. If it was going to be anywhere in Sydney, we’re glad it’s in Newtown. It’s fast becoming the best “alternative” nightclub for Sydneysiders looking for revelry from Wednesday to Sunday. The various nooks and crannies that frame the dancefloor don’t really start pumping until 11pm each night, and there’s always some sort of live performance going on.

Basement, 6 Wilson St, Newtown, oddculture.group

CAROUSEL

S.A.S.H., Sydney’s longest-running club night, linked up with the teams behind Slyfox Hotel and Stanley’s Bar to open Carousel Bar & Ballroom in 2023, a cabaret and ’70s-inspired bar with several dancefloors pumping from Friday to Sunday.

S.A.S.H. stays open until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5am on Sundays with local DJs testing that state-of-the-art Funktion-One sound system.

169 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, carousel.net.au

MARY’S UNDERGROUND

Down the moody stairs and into a dim lit bar, music enthusiasts will find a swell of jazz, blues, rock and techno coming from the stage. Welcome to Mary’s Underground – you’ll not only find great live music but also some of the best burgers in Sydney. The venue can turn from romantic banquettes into a sweaty dancefloor. It’s known for its listening parties of Indie sleaze to Charlie XCX.

29 Reiby Pl, Sydney, marysunderground.com

MARY’S UNDERGROUND

Out for a dance

» Sydney’s nightlife scene is back and better than ever, with action-packed nightclubs to suit every taste.

CARGO

This vast harbourside bar and nightclub opened in 2000, the year of the Sydney Olympics, and has been a reliable spot for night owls ever since. It underwent a glow-up for its 24th birthday last year, with cutting-edge lighting and sound systems being installed, along with a fresh new DJ booth, VIP area, bar, lounge and dining spaces. Dance the night away to RnB, hip-hop and Afrobeats tunes at this Euro-style club.

King Street Wharf, 52-60 The Promenade, Darling Harbour, cargobar.com.au

UNIVERSAL

Sydney lost a piece of its soul when the notorious Midnight Shift shuttered in 2017, denting the city’s LGBTQIA+ nightlife scene. A saving grace came a year later, transforming the space into Universal Sydney, where glitter, drag shows and disco balls once again take pride of place. Defined by its pinkand-gold tiled wall, the dancefloor is one of Sydney’s most expressive late-night spaces, continuing a long legacy of inclusivity and community. Don’t miss the drag shows that regularly fly through the venue’s ground floor, nor should you ignore that symbolic photo mural, stitched together from 800 images of the venue’s performers, artists, DJs and staff. Bring your stamina if you’re heading in on a Saturday night – the club doesn’t close until 7am. 85-91 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, (02) 8080 7065, universal.sydney

IVY POOL CLUB

The swanky ivy Pool Club offers a sparkling scene of Palm Springs-style cabanas and giant pitchers of Blanco sangria. Its namesake pool is flanked by one of Sydney’s most popular Italian restaurants, Uccello, on one end, and a state-of-the-art DJ booth on the other. The result: a social scene unlike any other in this beautiful city, elevated with a slick sense of style for a relaxed crowd who want little more than to party from day to night. The rooftop bar looks like a Slim Aarons photoshoot, giving Sydney its most attractive party spot.

Level 4, 330 George St, Sydney, (02) 9114 7307, merivale.com

CHINESE LAUNDRY

Who would have thought the King and Queen of Denmark would first meet just metres above the city’s slipperiest dancefloor? Buried beneath The Slip Inn on Sussex Street, Chinese Laundry holds court as Sydney’s most legendary rave cave. The tiny venue is open until 4am every Friday and Saturday, fuelled by sweaty Berlin-esque underground parties and the sharper textures of house and techno. Since 1996, the nightclub has hosted some of Australia’s biggest DJs such as Flume and Dom Dolla. After years of dormancy, hospitality group Merivale reopened the club in early 2024 as a contemporary blend of cutting-edge visuals, high-octane EDM and top-billing DJs.

1 Slip St, Sydney, merivale.com

IVY POOL CLUB

CARGO

Day and night in Darlo

» Sitting at the heart of Darlinghurst, Darlo Village lies between Oxford Street and the iconic Coca-Cola sign in Kings Cross.

This colourful neighbourhood has undergone quite a transformation. What was once known as “Razorhurst”, a crime hotspot, is now a vibrant hub for creatives and artists. There is always something to sip, browse and explore with a varied collection of coffee joints, small bars, indie shops, art spaces and diverse restaurants on offer. A fusion of all that came before – heritage architecture, bohemian spirit and lingering shadows of the past – Darlo’s graffiti-lined streets reflect a complex and creative history.

Shopping, Art & Culture

Explore Darlo’s diverse retail scene: Radio Free Alice specialises in vintage and new vinyl, CDs, cult books and films; Dust offers an eclectic mix of antiques and bric-a-brac from the early 1900s onward; and tucked away in the backstreets,

Twentieth Century Modern showcases a curated selection of hard-to-source antique finds.

The prestigious National Art School sits in the historic 19th-century Darlinghurst Gaol and is open for student shows and exhibitions. Minimalism meets maximalism at local art gallery Rainbow Studios, where exhibitions, events and community collaborations are regularly held. Grab tickets to an afternoon or evening show at Griffin Theatre Company to support new local talent.

Food

Darlo knows food, from brekkie bites to long lunches and moody dinners. Visit Bills for their famous ricotta pancakes in the buzzy corner cafe, or Darbury does coffee and breakfast in a former laundromat building – they also serve wine and cocktails on weekend nights, so versatile!

A Darlinghurst institution since the ’80s, Tropicana Ca e was once a bohemian artists’ hub that birthed Tropfest. Nowadays, diners can enjoy fresh Italian classics and espresso.

Whether it’s dinner alfresco, wine by candlelight or something a little bit di erent, Darlo Village has heaps of classic and quirky dinner spots that celebrate cuisines from around the world. The Mediterranean mood is big here: visit Fabbrica Pasta Bar for handmade pasta and Italian organic wines, hit up Bu alo Dining Club where they bring out the pecorino Romano cheese wheel at almost every opportunity, or Gino’s Kitchen & Cocktails, a place for the whole family to sit alfresco and enjoy a spritz and pizza in the sun.

Looking for a date night destination? Go to Govindas for dinner and a movie under the same roof, or head to Darlo’s smallest izakaya, Nomidokoro Indigo, for unique dishes and standout sake. A mix of cuisines is on o er at Kitanda, Tommy’s, Sea Cow, Takam, Una’s and Fortuna.

Bars & Late

Uncover Darlo’s late-night haunts, with pubs to watch the sunset or hidden bars that never see the sun. A haven of the community, Darlo Bar is always bustling with locals soaking up afternoon rays and taking advantage of the daily happy hour. A modern take on the neighbourhood pub, The Waratah serves

Clockwise, from far left: Look out for street art in Darlo; dogs are welcome at the Darlo Bar; shop blooms at Queen of Flowers; Darlo Night Markets; the bar scene is strong here.

DARLO NIGHT MARKETS

Every third Saturday of the month from 4pm to 9pm, the Darlo Night Markets bring eats and beats to the grounds of the historic St John’s Anglican Church. Enjoy a buzzy evening ﬁlled with vintage and pre-loved clothes, local designer fashion, delish food stalls and live music. It’s the perfect early evening hangout.

up Australiana classics with a twist. Opulent bar The Velvet Glove is tucked away down a laneway, and around the corner, Tatler shakes up creative cocktails in a former speakeasy.

From its storied past to its lively present, Darlo Village pulses with creativity and culture. Whether you’re here for the food, art, nightlife or a stroll through its eclectic streets, this revitalised pocket of Darlinghurst invites you to explore one bite, sip and beat at a time.

After-dark eats

» Sydney has plenty to offer your palate when those late-night hunger pangs start to strike, taking you on a world tour from Malaysia to the Lebanon – via Newtown.

MAMAK

Mamak has been a Malay institution for more than a decade, constantly drawing long queues of latenight diners. The smell of thick curries and nutty satay travels all the way down Goulburn Street, leading night owls to a scene of flaky, flu y roti and ayam goreng. The kitchen’s endearing success relies on simplicity: good food at a low price point, which is why you’ll find this spot buzzing until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

15 Goulburn St, Haymarket, (02) 9211 1668, mamak.com.au

INDIAN HOME DINER

When the local council threatened to cut Indian Home Diner’s late-night trading hours, Sydneysiders showed up in spades to petition and save the Oxford Street institution. They even threw parties to raise awareness. And it worked: Indian Home Diner can still wrap up those remarkable Indian kebabs until 2:50am on Fridays and Saturdays, sharing the profound joy of chewing through a cheese naan wrapped around two massive pieces of chicken tikka with butter chicken sauce after a big night out.

88 Oxford St, Paddington, (02) 9331 4183, instagram.com/indianhomediner

ODD CULTURE

Odd Culture is Newtown’s exciting ode to all things fermented, featuring an extensive list of experimental beers and wines, along with technique-forward food that skews towards latenight indulgences such as chicken liver pâté with potato chips and ﬁsh caramel sauce, and octopus with olive tapenade, fennel and almond. The bar doesn’t close until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s the perfect stop after a night out at nearby favourites such as Pleasure Club or Bar Planet.

266 King St, Newtown, (02) 8317 3057, oddculture.group.

CAFFE ROMA

Ca e Roma is the grand dame of Kings Cross’s charming Kellett Street, tucked just behind the area’s nightclub strip with three decades of history behind it. The trattoria keeps things simple, with large pizza and pasta rolling out until 2am every day except Sunday (when it closes at midnight).

9 Kellett St, Potts Point, (02) 9358 3578, ca eroma.com.au

JIMMY’S FALAFEL

Thumping hip-hop beats echo well outside of Jimmy’s Falafel’s open-faced dining room as late-night revellers pack into the George Street favourite. Big nights in the CBD almost always end up here, in a more reﬁned alternative to your typical kebab shop, where there’s upscale Middle Eastern food and piping hot pitas available for takeaway or dine-in until 2am Thursday through Saturday.

330 George St, (02) 9114 7381, merivale.com/ venues/jimmys-falafel

CAFFE ROMA

SHOPPING

Sydneysiders are serious about their shopping and the Harbour City is studded with fabulous retail hotspots, from historic arcades to urban markets and designer boutiques. If you’re looking for local Sydney designs, one-of-a-kind collectables or big-name brands, Sydney has options for all budgets. For authentic gems that give you a Sydney sparkle, you can’t pass up the chance to hunt for Aussie opals or visit the iconic Paddy’s Markets, which has everything from fresh produce to souvenirs and toys. For discount hunters, Birkenhead Point is a gold mine for designer fashion at incredible prices. So, let’s go shopping!

SHOPPING

City centre

» You’ll ﬁnd it all in the city centre, from international brands to luxury labels and quirky Australian designs.

QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING

Known to locals as the QVB, this historic covered arcade is an architectural landmark dating back to 1898. It’s home to luxury global brands, high-street retail and the Queen Victoria Tea Room, famous for high tea. Town Hall station is located beneath the building or catch the light rail to the QVB stop. 455 George St, Sydney, (02) 9265 6800, qvb.com.au

THE STRAND ARCADE

The Strand is Sydney’s only remaining Victorianstyle shopping arcade based on early 1800s European architecture. Here, discover luxury Australian brands such as Bassike and Camilla and Marc, along with high-end milliners, vintage watches and inventive jewellery. 412-414 George St, Sydney, (02) 9265 6800, strandarcade.com.au

PITT ST MALL

This bustling, pedestrian-only mall spans two blocks in the city centre. It’s bordered with loads of retail centres – Glasshouse, Sydney Arcade, Westﬁeld Sydney, Mid City Shopping Centre and The Strand Arcade – and features more than 500 specialty stores. For high-street shopping destinations, discover Zara, H&M, Sephora, Sportsgirl, Superdry and many more.

182 Pitt St, Sydney, pittstreetmall.com.au

WESTFIELD SYDNEY

Built around the iconic Sydney Tower, Westﬁeld Sydney houses some of the world’s most exclusive brands, along with high-end services such as valet parking and personal styling. With more than 280 retailers over four levels of luxury fashion and homegrown Australian brands. Shop ’til you drop or window gaze at Aje, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Fendi, Ferragamo, Prada and more.

Corner of Pitt St Mall and Market St, Sydney, (02) 8236 9200, westﬁeld.com.au/sydney

THE ROCKS

The Rocks is Sydney’s oldest and most compact precinct with historic hotspots and an extraordinary harbourside location. It also o ers a unique shopping experience with quaint boutiques lining cobblestone lanes, designer clothing and cosmetics, and a vibrant market every Saturday and Sunday with plenty of handmade wares and memorable objets d’art to take home.

The Rocks, George St, (02) 9240 8500, therocks.com/shop

THE STRAND ARCADE

PHOTOS:

QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING

Luxury

500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction, (02) 9947 8000, westﬁeld.com.au/bondijunction

THE LEATHER TRADING CO

Established in 1999, The Leather Trading Co has become a trusted name in timeless craftsmanship. Its range of handcrafted leather goods, including wallets, belts, travel bags, satchels, backpacks and accessories, are meticulously made from ethically sourced full-grain leather of the highest quality.

» If you like to splash a little cash, you’ve come to the right place. Visit the elegant stores of designer brands and Sydney’s homegrown artisans or hunt down a luxe-for-less bargain.

CASTLEREAGH STREET

Luxury lovers should head to Castlereagh Street, near where it intersects King Street in central Sydney, for labels such as Dior, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Bulgari, Hermès and Saint Laurent. David Jones o ers curated fashion and accessories with exclusive brands including Loewe, Balenciaga, Rationale and Gentle Monster for stylish sunglasses. Start around the intersection of King St and Castlereagh St, Sydney

OPAL CUTTERS

A true hidden gem! Australian Opal Cutters has the largest collection of luxurious, ethically sourced opal jewellery in the country. The long-established showroom, retail space and opal-cutting workshop boasts a stunning array of opals, pearls and other gemstones. The expert team can work with you to create a customised future heirloom. 295-301 Pitt St, Sydney, australianopalcutters.com

BONDI JUNCTION WESTFIELD

This sprawling retail centre in Sydney’s busy Bondi Junction is a one-stop shop for luxurious, global brands. Fashion-forward labels here include Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Christian Louboutin and Ti any & Co. Spread over seven levels, it’s easy to get lost – seek the concierge desks dotted throughout.

77 George St, The Rocks, 0406 622 888, theleathertradingco.com; or every weekend at The Rocks Market, therocks.com

THE STAR SYDNEY

The retail arcade in The Star Casino is petite but has a nicely edited mix of high-end boutiques. For a few of life’s little luxuries after trying your hand at a game of blackjack on the casino ﬂoor, stroll into Rolex for classic timepieces, Versace for Italian style and Kennedy for ﬁne jewellery.

80 Pyrmont St, Pyrmont, 1800 700 700, star.com.au/shop

DOUBLE BAY

Among the leafy streets, secret lanes and little arcades of the harbourside village of Double Bay lie some seriously chic luxury boutiques. Browse at Aco. for a multi-brand curation of contemporary clothing, admire glamorous jewellery adored by celebrities at Jan Logan and don’t miss Belinda International, for a treasure trove of designers from around the globe.

CASTLEREAGH STREET

THE LEATHER TRADING CO

Markets

» The sparkling harbour and sensational weather, plus the sheer number of beaches and natural spaces, means Sydney communities love spending time outdoors. It makes sense that markets are a huge part of the culture in Sydney! Here are some local favourites.

BONDI MARKETS

This beachside market in world-famous Bondi is jam-packed with emerging local fashion designs, vintage ﬁnds and chic coastal homewares.

Sunday 10am-4pm, Bondi Beach Public School, Campbell Pde, Bondi, 0402 280 633, bondimarkets.com.au

PADDY’S MARKETS

Take some time to check out the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s oldest and largest market. Set on the edge of Chinatown, this is a shopping experience like no other. You can ﬁnd fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, meat, souvenirs, hats, leather goods, watches, sunglasses, cosmetics, toys, shoes, Ugg boots, mobile phone accessories, luggage, jewellery, homewares and much more!

Wednesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, 9/13 Hay St, Haymarket, (02) 9325 6200, paddysmarkets.com.au

PADDINGTON MARKETS

Iconic Sydney brand Zimmermann got its start at these markets in the stylish suburb of Paddington.

Be inspired by emerging local fashion designers, art, jewellery and craft.

Saturday from 10am, 395 Oxford St, Paddington, 0402 280 633, paddingtonmarkets.com.au

KIRRIBILLI MARKETS

This is one of Sydney’s oldest and most popular markets and features more than 220 stalls selling new and recycled fashion and accessories, styles from emerging local fashion designers, homewares, arts and craft, plants and gourmet food. The markets help support the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre which assists the local community. Check the website for dates, Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16-18 Fitzroy St, Kirribilli, kirribillimarkets.com

ROZELLE COLLECTORS MARKETS

Rozelle is a hotspot for sustainable fashion and there is no better place to start than Rozelle Collectors Markets. It is a combination of secondhand, bric-a-brac and antiques market. This openair market is a brilliant spot to poke about, catch up with friends and bag some unique ﬁnds. It operates year-round in the historical sandstone buildings of Rozelle Public School. Nearby, recycled fashion shops line both sides of Darling Street. Saturdays, Rozelle Public School, Darling St, Rozelle, rozellecollectorsmarket.com.au

GLEBE MARKETS

With live music, handmade artisan collectables, pre-loved treasures and delicious food, the Glebe markets are a popular and eclectic place to be seen on the weekend.

Saturday 10am-4pm, 46-56 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, (02) 9999 2226, glebemarkets.com.au

CARRIAGEWORKS FARMERS MARKET

Inside the contemporary arts precinct of Carriageworks, this foodie’s playground is crowded with seasonal produce from local NSW growers, farmers and makers set in an historic workshop.

Saturday 8am-1pm, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh, (02) 8571 9099, carriageworks.com.a

CARRIAGEWORKS FARMERS MARKETS

Sydney’s iconic market that has been a favourite with locals and visitors for over 48 years. Everything from vintage clothing, bespoke

ALFRED ST, MILSONS POINT

(corner Burton & Alfred St) a short walk from the ferry and a one-minute walk from the Milsons Point train station

Paddy’s Markets

» Paddy’s Haymarket – or Paddy’s as it’s affectionately known – is a buzzing city market that dates back to 1834. It’s come a long way since then, and has grown into one of Sydney’s biggest and most popular markets, offering fresh produce, street food, souvenirs, fashion and gifts. A must-visit destination where locals and tourists hunt for bargains and discover something new every time, it’s perfect for those who like to get amongst the action.

SYDNEY SOUVENIRS

Find the perfect memento at Sydney Souvenirs inside Paddy’s Haymarket. From koalas and kangaroos to limited-edition Australian Hello Kitty plushies, this stall is a must for travellers looking to grab Aussie gifts and keepsakes without breaking the bank.

BANKNOTES AND COLLECTIBLES

Collectors and curious travellers alike will love this rare gem inside Paddy’s Haymarket. Browse global banknotes, historic coins, and unique currency keepsakes – the perfect conversation starter or souvenir with a story to tell.

HAY ST MARKET

Sydney’s newest foodie hub, Hay St Market at Paddy’s, blends global street eats with fresh produce and specialty retail. Explore 48 new market stands with more than 25 worldwide cuisines and local favourites, all under one roof. There are bakeries, coffee roasters, Vietnamese banh mi, Spanish tapas and Indigenous food too. There are two bars providing beers, wines, bubbles and non-alcoholic drinks for all occasions.

FRUIT AND VEG

Need fresh fruit, snacks or a budget-friendly bite? The Paddy’s Haymarket fruit and veg section is a traveller’s go-to for vibrant produce, unbeatable bargains and the best value pit stop in Sydney’s CBD.

Paddy’s Haymarket and Central Market opens Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-6pm. Hay St Market opens Wednesday to Sunday – see website for bar and hawkers opening hours, paddysmarkets.com.au.

How to get there: Catch the train to Central Station and walk five minutes to Paddy’s, or take the Light Rail and alight at Haymarket or Paddy’s Markets. Alternatively, catch the bus or park on Quay Street at Wilson Parking Station.

Outlets

» Why pay full prices when fantastic deals on fashion, homewares and everything in between await at outlets across the city? Shop on a budget and pick up bargains at these suburban outlet malls.

BIRKENHEAD POINT

Explore more than 160 local and international fashion and homeware stores at this harbourside outlet centre. Fashionistas may flock to the likes of Adidas, Calvin Klein, Lorna Jane and Levi’s, or explore Australian brands such as Cotton On, Assembly Label or Elka Collective. For homewares, make sure to visit Peter’s of Kensington and Adairs. 19 Roseby St, Drummoyne, birkenheadpoint.com.au

ALEXANDRIA

Spread across a wide radius along Botany Road and McEvoy, O’Riordan and Bourke Streets is an array of outlet warehouses. Australian fashion brands such as Seafolly, Nude Lucy and Oxford offer cutprice styles; Puma and New Balance deliver savings on sneakers; while Victoria’s Basement and Peter’s of Kensington offer irresistible homewares. Do your research before you go and plan your route through Alexandria’s offerings.

Travel to Green Square Station, Alexandria

FASHION SPREE

As the name suggests, Fashion Spree in southwest Sydney is the place to go for discounted fashion, accessories, footwear, sportswear and kids’ clothing. Brands include Oroton, Tommy Hilfiger, Billini, Bonds and Puma. Adjacent to Fashion Spree, The Grove Homemaker Centre is filled with homeware stores such as Harvey Norman and James Lane. 5 Viscount Place, Liverpool, fashionspree.com.au

MARKET CITY

Arguably the CBD’s most popular outlet shopping option, Market City spans three floors with shopping and Asian dining, as well as Paddy’s Haymarket and the new Hay St Market foodie destination next door. Save on footwear at Footlocker and Converse – and Cotton On Mega is a big store with even bigger savings. 9-13 Hay Street, Haymarket, marketcity.com.au

MARKET CITY

BIRKENHEAD POINT

SHOPPING

» This DFO shopping centre is home to more than 100 outlet retailers, several premium and luxury brands, and a great selection of eateries. You’ll find it in the Sydney suburb of Homebush.

ARMANI OUTLET

The most famous of the Italian design houses, Armani has led the way in men’s and women’s fashion and accessories for 50 years. At DFO Homebush, shop for stunning haute couture at excellent outlet prices. Level 2, (02) 9764 5762

CALVIN KLEIN

Find distinctive underwear, activewear, jeans, accessories and footwear for men, women and children at the main store. There is also a dedicated Calvin Klein Men’s store a few doors away, with even more items on o er. Level 2, (02) 8336 6328

COACH

Founded in New York in 1941, global fashion house Coach is highly regarded for its a ordable designer handbags, such as the Tabby. Explore the di erent colours and styles, along with wallets, clothing and other accessories. Level 2, (02) 9746 2564

MICHAEL KORS

For luxury accessories and ready-to-wear items, as well as a line of popular fragrances, Michael Kors is the place to go. Whether shopping for footwear, men’s and women’s clothing, watches or jewellery, you will ﬁnd it here. Level 2, (02) 9764 3181

NIKE

An instantly recognisable leader in the athleisurewear market, ﬁnd the latest range of sports footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories in-store, so that you’re ready for your next athletic adventure. Level 2, (02) 8336 6319

PETER ALEXANDER

Dubbed Australia’s ‘Pyjama King’, Peter Alexander has been reinventing nightwear since 1987. Each collection has a unique theme, inspired by the designer’s travels or collaborations with the likes of Disney and Sesame Street. Level 2, (02) 9746 1419

HOW TO GET THERE

Public transport: Catch the train from Central Station to Strathﬁeld Station, then catch the 526 bus towards Rhodes Shopping Centre. Alight at DFO Homebush, Underwood Road.

Car: There are more than 2000 parking spaces available, as well as EV charging stations. Open daily, 10am-6pm (until 8pm Thursday).

DFO HOMEBUSH

IN THE HEART OF DARLINGHURST. DISCOVER SMALL BARS, CAFES, PUBS, RESTAURANTS & INDIE STORES.

EXPERIENCES

Whether you’re keen on heart-racing adventures or something a little more leisurely, Sydney has experiences for all kinds of passions and interests. Want to cuddle a koala? You don’t even have to leave the city. Want to see Sydney from a contrasting perspective? Take a helicopter tour with Blue Sky. Climb to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Curious about Sydney’s most haunted place? Let’s go ghost hunting! If time is plentiful, take an easy day trip into the pristine landscapes of the Blue Mountains to Scenic World. It’s a state-of-the-art adventure in ancient wilderness you will never forget. It’s time to choose your adventure in the Harbour City.

Go City

Save up to 50% on Sydney attractions incl. Hunter Valley Wine Tours, Blue Mountains Stargazing and more

BLUE SKY HELI TOURS

Winter wonders EXPERIENCES

» Whale-watching, ice skating and indoor cultural explorations reveal another side to Sydney – these are some of the experiences best enjoyed during the cooler months.

TAKE YOUR WHALE-WATCHING EXPERIENCE UP A NOTCH

Fantasea Cruising get you to the open ocean within 20 minutes and offers a whale guarantee with the Discovery cruise, so you can take a second cruise for free if you don’t see whales on the first trip. If you’re short on time, opt for the two-hour Express cruise, or thrill-seekers should jump aboard the Adventure cruise for a high-speed whale-watching treat. Cruises depart from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, 1800 326 822, fantasea.com.au

CRUISE AROUND TO SEE GENTLE GIANTS

Many people watch out for whales from the coastline, but cruises get you closer to the action. Go Whale Watching offers a classic three-hour cruise. Departing morning and afternoon, vessels have

panoramic viewing decks and indoor and outdoor seating, so you can watch whatever the weather. Take a sunset cruise on Friday, Saturday or Sunday and see humpbacks during golden hour.

King St Wharf 6, The Promenade, (02) 6495 1686, gowhalewatchingsydney.com.au

GET YOUR SKATES ON IN DARLING HARBOUR

Twinkling lights and a harbourfront open-air ice-skating rink bring the magic of winter to Palm Grove in Darling Harbour. There’s heaps of space for skaters to glide across the ice, and penguin skating aids for those who are a little less steady on their blades.

Palm Grove Forecourt, Wheat Road, Sydney, darlingharbour.com

SPEND A DAY AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

Experience the extraordinary landmark in three acts. The Tour & Dine experience pairs a guided tour with lunch by the harbour at Opera Bar, House Canteen or Midden by Mark Olive. Afterwards, book to see a show in the Utzon Room. The stage is set in front of a panoramic window, offering a dramatic backdrop with views towards Bradleys Head.

Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com

SKATE IN DARLING HARBOUR

WHALE WATCHING

Feeling brave? Step onto the roof of the cable car at Scenic World, 270m in the air.

The icons

» You can’t come to Sydney without ticking the big names off your bucket list. These are the best ways to see the icons.

CLIMB THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

Scale to the summit of Sydney Harbour Bridge and get a whole new perspective on the sprawling city below. The sweeping 360-degree views from the peak of the bridge take in the glittering harbour, the Sydney Opera House sails, Luna Park, the cityscape and the headlands beyond.

BridgeClimb Sydney, 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks, (02) 8274 7777, bridgeclimb.com

GO SKY HIGH ON THE SYDNEY TOWER EYE

For a thrilling adventure more than 300 metres in the air, visit Sydney’s tallest building for epic 360-degree city views. Soak up the astonishing vista from the Observation Deck, or book a Skywalk tour and step out into the fresh air with Sydney laid out in all her glory as your guide tells tales of the city.

Sydney Tower Eye, Westfield Sydney, Market St, (02) 9333 9222, sydneytowereye.com.au

EXPLORE THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

The curves of the Sydney Opera House captivate the world, but beyond the famous exterior lies an extraordinary history and legendary tales. The original daily tour takes one hour – inspect the building’s revolutionary design up close, be versed

in unforgettable performances and uncover the Sydney Opera House’s best-kept secrets.

Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7111, sydneyoperahouse.com

SEE THE ICONIC BLUE MOUNTAINS AT SCENIC WORLD

Scenic World is a glorious way to see the beauty and scale of the Blue Mountains. There are four different family-friendly attractions: Scenic Railway, Scenic Cableway, Scenic Walkway and Scenic Skyway. From whooshing down the world’s steepest railway or gliding over the pretty landscape in the cable car, it’s a picturesque and memorable day out. Feeling brave? Try the new Beyond Skyway experience and step out of the cable car onto the roof more than 270 metres above the valley below. Scenic World, Violet St & Cliff Dr, Katoomba, (02) 4780 0200, scenicworld.com.au

BLUE SKY HELICOPTERS

If you have limited time in Sydney and want to see it all, then a Blue Sky helicopter tour is the only way to fly. The operators of Sydney Airport’s longestestablished, locally owned helicopter company know the beauty of Sydney, its harbour and its magnificent surroundings. Flying at about 200km/h and covering a round trip of 45km, you can take in magnificent views of the harbour, beaches and suburbs of Sydney in a 20-minute trip with memories that will last a lifetime.

462 Ross Smith Ave, Mascot, (02) 9700 7888, blueskyhelicopters.com

SCENIC WORLD

EXPERIENCES

On the water

» Sydney is surrounded by water, from the glittering harbour to crashing ocean waves and gently meandering rivers. It’s easy to get out and explore this watery wonderland by boat, kayak and surfboard.

DISCOVER SYDNEY HARBOUR BY KAYAK

Imagine gliding over the glassy waters of the harbour with the Sydney Harbour Bridge soaring above you. Sydney by Kayak is an award-winning eco-tourism operator and has been guiding groups of keen paddlers across the waters of Sydney Harbour since 2013. Join the popular Sunrise Kayak and Coffee tour or the fun Social Paddles, ideal for beginners.

Sydney by Kayak, 1 Railway Ave, Lavender Bay, 1300 452 925, sydneybykayak.com.au

DELIVER THE MAIL WITH THE RIVERBOAT POSTMAN

The Hawkesbury River borders the northwestern edge of Sydney and is dotted with tiny communities accessible only by water. The Riverboat Postman has been delivering mail and other essentials since 1910 and today the modern vessel welcomes passengers on board to see a different slice of Sydney life. Tours depart 10am weekdays or you can join special lunch or music cruises on Sundays.

Riverboat Postman, Dangar Rd, Brooklyn, 0400 600 111, riverboatpostman.com.au

JET BOAT TOUR OF THE HARBOUR

For those who like to splash out on sightseeing experiences, hold on to your hat as you reach thrilling speeds and take dizzying 360-degree spins on the water in an iconic red shark boat with Oz Jet Boating. The experienced team will take you on the (wettest) ride of your life.

Oz Jet Boating, Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay, (02) 9808 3700, ozjetboating.com.au

RIVERBOAT POSTMAN

SYDNEY BY KAYAK

PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW, CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES

SCENIC SAILING ON DUYFKEN

Take a unique tour of Sydney Harbour on board a replica of the Duyfken, the first European ship to reach northern Australia in 1606. Departing from the Australian Maritime Museum, you’ll sail past Barangaroo, Garden Island, the Sydney Opera House and more, while hearing fascinating stories of 17th-century sailing and the Dutch East India Company’s trading voyages.

Australian National Maritime Museum, 2 Murray St, Darling Harbour, (02) 9298 3777, sea.museum

LEARN TO SURF WITH LETS GO SURFING

Find your feet in the surf at Bondi with top-notch surfing school, Lets Go Surfing. Both group and private lessons are available for adults, teens and kids, with all equipment and instruction included. Learn important surf safety rules, how to paddle, catch a wave and, hopefully, stand up on the board!

Lets Go Surfing, 128 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi, (02) 9365 1800, letsgosurfing.com.au

JOURNEY BEYOND CRUISES

Sail into a world of gourmet delight aboard the 78ft luxury cruiser, Spirit of Migloo. Immerse yourself in an intimate dining experience as you traverse Sydney’s iconic harbour, cruising under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House. While enjoying the sights, indulge in a two-course lunch or a three-course dinner paired with fine local wine. Journey Beyond Cruises, Wharf 8, King St Wharf, 1300 460 400, journeybeyondcruises.com

CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES

Beyond the natural beauty of Sydney Harbour there is so much more to see and do. Captain Cook Cruises offers a comprehensive range of dining, sightseeing, wildlife and whale-watching experiences. A Hop On Hop Off ferry day pass is a great way to explore major attractions including Taronga Zoo, Manly, Watsons Bay and more with guided commentary. Take sightseeing to a new level with premium day and cocktail cruises featuring reserved lounges, a house beverage of your choice and a cheese and charcuterie tasting plate. Multi-award-winning dining experiences include lunch, high tea and spectacular dinner cruises. Captain Cook Cruises, (02) 9206 1111, captaincook.com.au

CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES

Nature & wildlife

» You don’t have to leave the city to experience the great outdoors or to meet Australia’s legendary animals. Walks, wildlife parks and trail rides await.

GO UNDER THE SEA AT SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM

Deep-dive into an aquatic wonderland at one of the world’s largest aquariums in the centre of Sydney. Watch in awe as sharks, rays and a rare dugong glide above you in the expansive overhead aquariums, then jump aboard the state-of-the-art Penguin Expedition Boat Ride to cruise through a colony of king and gentoo penguins.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, (02) 9333 9200, visitsealife.com/sydney

MEET A KOALA AT WILD LIFE SYDNEY ZOO

It’s incredible in a bustling city like Sydney to be able to get up close and personal with so many native Australian animals. At WILD LIFE you can pat a kangaroo, smile at a crocodile in the Crocodile Billabong and meet a cuddly koala. There’s also plenty of conservation education and expert guides.

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, 1800 195 650, wildlifesydney.com.au

TALK TO THE ANIMALS AT TARONGA ZOO

Taronga Zoo is home to more than 4000 animals, making it Australia’s largest zoo. Animal lovers can marvel at gira es, elephants, monkeys and

more, against a stunning harbour backdrop. For adventurers, swing and climb across the zoo with Wild Ropes Treetops Adventure. Want to linger longer? Roar and Snore is an on-site safari sleepover with behind-the-scenes access.

Taronga Zoo Sydney, Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman, (02) 9969 2777, taronga.org.au

COME FACE-TO-FACE WITH NATIVE ANIMALS

More than 260 Australian species, from koalas and kangaroos to wombats and dingos, can be found across 2.8 hectares of bushland at Featherdale Wildlife Park. You can hand-feed a lot of these furry friends, pat a koala and walk through the Lorikeet Aviary. There are even farm animals to feed.

Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, 217 Kildare Road, Doonside, (02) 9622 1644, featherdale.com.au

HORSE RIDING IN CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS

For an equine adventure without leaving the city, saddle up in Centennial Parklands – the 360-hectare green space is just dreamy for a horse ride. Situated inside The Centennial Parklands

Equestrian Centre is Eastside Riding Academy, which runs leisure park rides. The academy caters for budding horse riders and those more experienced in the saddle.

Eastside Riding Academy, 120 Lang Rd, Moore Park, (02) 9360 7521, eastsideriding.com.au

SEA LIFE SYDNEY

TARONGA ZOO

OUT OF TOWN

Travelling outside of Sydney couldn’t be easier and is so rewarding, whatever your schedule allows. For a quick escape from the city, the golden sands of Palm Beach and the majestic landscapes of the Blue Mountains offer some picture-perfect respite. Those wanting to travel further afield can open up a world of possibilities. There’s the small-yet-mighty capital of Canberra for museum lovers, while budding sommeliers shouldn’t miss the wineries of the Hunter Valley. Coastal escapes aren’t in short supply, either. Head north for Port Stephens, named Wotif’s Australian Town of the Year 2025, or south for stunning Jervis Bay.

Go City

Save up to 50% on Sydney attractions incl. Hunter Valley Wine Tours, Blue Mountains Stargazing and more

LILYPAD, PALM BEACH

Daytrips from Sydney

» Sydney’s peerless lifestyle is only half the story of New South Wales, with so much more to see than just the staggering beauty of the Harbour City. From the foodie paradise of Canberra to the ancient bush trails of the Southern Highlands, there’s a lot you can do with a car, and a sense of adventure.

CANBERRA 3HRS

As the seat of Australian politics, you might think Canberra would cut a rather stale shape. Quite the contrary. This is one of the few political capitals in the world that’s papered with award-winning wineries and surrounded by natural beauty. The Australian War Memorial is a deeply moving and humbling experience; you’ll want to take a tour of Parliament House (and even better, Old Parliament House, now housing the Museum of Australian Democracy); and don’t miss the world-class exhibitions at the National Museum of Australia. After you’re done wining and dining around hip-and-happening Braddon, have a deeply transformative experience by exploring local Indigenous culture with Dhawura Tours.

BLUE MOUNTAINS 90MINS

The monumental maze of historic towns, deep valleys and scenic lookouts has made the Blue Mountains a restorative getaway for decades. Stop

at Featherdale Wildlife Park on your way out of Sydney, before starting your explorations, from the breathtaking Scenic Skyway to the iconic rock formation, the Three Sisters. Stop by Leura Village for unique gifts and produce-forward dining, have a pint or two at Mountain Culture Beer Co, climb through the Jenolan Caves and go waterfall hunting among several thundering gems. If you need somewhere to stay, check into the acclaimed Hydro Majestic or Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort.

HUNTER VALLEY 2HRS

Stop in Newcastle on the way to the Hunter Valley and you’ll have the pick of some of the state’s finest restaurants such as Jana Restaurant & Bar and Humbug. Then it’s on to the world-class wineries of the Hunter region, where some of Australia’s oldest vines prop up award-winning wineries such as Brokenwood, Krinklewood and Margan Wines. For something unforgettable, take a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. If wine isn’t your thing, dive into a country-style pub feed at Lovedale Brewery and sample some of the best beers in the state. For accommodation, rest your head at Winmark Wines.

WOLLONGONG 90MINS

Sydney may have some of the world’s most famous beaches, but you’d be remiss if you didn’t test drive some of the other patches of sand around the state. Take a 90-minute detour south of Sydney and hit the beachside town of Wollongong, with its

HUNTER VALLEY

BLUE MOUNTAINS

OUT OF TOWN

definitive surf culture and highly underrated coastal dining scene. Take a contemplative walk through the Wollongong Botanic Garden if you want a break from the sand, or check out some local secrets such as the largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere, Nan Tien Temple. Don’t forget to tuck into some of the state’s freshest catches at The Lagoon Seafood Restaurant, or you can keep it casual with local favourite Diggies Cafe. If you want to spend the night, Sage Hotel Wollongong is central, inexpensive and comfortable.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS 90MINS

Deepening your understanding of our state’s diverse topography wouldn’t be possible without a visit to the Southern Highlands. Located just 90 minutes outside Sydney, this impossibly picturesque region is peppered with microclimates, resulting in fantastic cool-climate wines and a dining scene worth driving for. A number of historic towns sit around the region, including Bowral with its well-kept gardens, antique shopping and the quintessential Bradman Museum, dedicated to our legendary Sir Donald Bradman and Aussies’ undying love of cricket. Hike on up to Fitzroy Falls, hop around the quaint cafes, restaurants and shopfronts of Mittagong, or admire the preserved colonial architecture in the village of Berrima. Spoil yourself with a feast and a stay at the lush Osborn House in Bundanoon to unwind in luxury, if you want to spend a night or two in this beautiful region.

PORT STEPHENS 2.5HRS

Dolphin watching is one of the most popular activities in Port Stephens, enjoyed while you’re running through the long list of water sports available across the many beaches. Only two-anda-half hours outside Sydney, you’ll find a more intimate, untouched landscape that’s defined by its pristine nature walks and dependable marinewildlife sightings. Take a whale-watching cruise early in the morning or skip the sights and lift your adrenaline by sandboarding the monumental sand dunes at Stockton Beach. The Little Nel, just a skip from Nelson Bay Foreshore Reserve, is a must for lunch. Pick between Bannisters and The Anchorage for top-tier accommodation, if you want to spend a night or two.

The largest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere is just outside Wollongong.

NAN TIEN TEMPLE

WOLLONGONG

Palm Beach is a popular daytrip destination for anyone who just wants to rip themselves away from the stresses of daily life. That’s the value of Palmy, as the locals call it – privacy and calm. Eat at quaint cafes and refined restaurants, such as the awardwinning Jonah’s and Boathouse Palm Beach. Take a hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for epic vistas of the dramatic coast and then take the road back to the city. Although if you did want to stay a night or two, try the luxurious floating Lilypad, with hot tub and sauna, and enjoy uninterrupted Pittwater views.

JERVIS BAY 2.5HRS

The white-sand beaches of Jervis Bay skew tropical, with crystal-clear waters and a lifestyle that feels far removed from Sydney’s hustle. The locale is world-famous for its dramatic bioluminescence, which makes the water glow in the warmer months, but there are plenty more visually stunning things to do out here. Take a long hike through Booderee National Park and learn about the local Wreck Bay Aboriginal community, go dolphin and whale watching or relax on Hyams Beach. Just make sure you work in a meal at the cosy Huskisson Hotel and spend the night at Bangalay Luxury Villas, if you want soak up more of the outdoors the next morning.

PALM BEACH 50MINS

MITTAGONG

JERVIS BAY

PORT STEPHENS

Travel in Sydney is easy

» If your cruise ship docked at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay, you’re right next door to one of the city’s main transport hubs. For those docking at White Bay, your cruise line will organise transfers into the city centre.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Sydney has five main public transport options: train, bus, light rail, ferry and the new metro. For detailed route maps and timetables, visit transportnsw.info

Train

Circular Quay is one of Sydney’s main train stations. It’s part of the City Circle loop, which will take you to Town Hall and Central. You can also catch the train over the bridge to North Sydney or east to Bondi Junction. If Sydney is the last stop on your cruise, you can catch the train straight to Sydney Airport.

Bus

Sydney’s signature blue and white buses cover the whole city. Popular routes for visitors include 333

Running since the mid-1800s, Sydney Ferries carries over 15 million passengers a year.

from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach, 373 from Museum Station to Coogee, 440 from Museum Station to Paddington and the B1 from Wynyard to the Northern Beaches.

Light rail

The light rail network runs straight along Sydney’s main thoroughfare, George Street, between Circular Quay and Central Station, then on to Randwick in the east. A separate line runs from Central Station through Haymarket and Darling Harbour.

Metro

Driverless trains on Sydney’s new metro will whizz you to the city’s north, including Chatswood and North Sydney (Victoria Cross), and west as far as Sydenham. Underground stations in the city include Barangaroo, Martin Place, Gadigal and Central.

Ferry Every visitor to Sydney should ride a ferry at least once – it’s both public transport and a picturesque harbour cruise. Catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Luna Park, Manly or Taronga Zoo.

SYDNEY HARBOUR FERRIES

PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW

HOW TO PAY

The whole public transport network uses the same payment system and there are two options for paying for your travel.

Opal card

Buy an Opal card from one of the many local retailers, including newsagents, convenience stores and supermarkets. Put money on the card at purchase (a minimum of $20 for adults and $10 for children applies), then use the card to tap on and o trains, buses, ferries and the light rail.

Contactless payment

Use your existing credit or debit card (American Express, Mastercard or Visa) directly to tap on or o the system. All cards with the can be used to pay for travel, but it’s a good idea to check with your provider if you’re visiting from overseas. You can also use cards in your digital wallet, through Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, or on your Apple Watch.

HOP ON, HOP OFF

For visitors to Sydney who like the freedom to explore but prefer a little guidance and commentary,

LIGHT RAIL

hop-on, hop-o tourist services are ideal. Big Bus operates open-top buses and Captain Cook Cruises operates ferries throughout Sydney Harbour.

TAXIS AND RIDESHARE

Taxis are plentiful and you’ll ﬁnd them at taxi ranks or you can hail one from the street – just make sure its light is on. You can also book one through the Rydo app. Taxis should always operate a meter and you can pay with card or cash. Rideshare services like Uber, Ola and DiDi are popular. Download one of the apps to book a ride.

WALKING AND CYCLING

Central Sydney is easy to explore under your own steam. Darling Harbour, Barangaroo, Pitt Street Mall and Haymarket are all within a 30-minute walk of Circular Quay. If you like to cycle, you’ll ﬁnd dockless share bikes around the city that you can unlock with an app. Be sure to stick to the designated bike lanes and remember that Australian law requires everyone to wear a helmet.

Sydney ferries network

PointGreenwich Woolwich BalmainEastBalmain Birchgrove Drummoyne Chiswick Abbotsford Cabarita SydneyOlympic Park

PointHuntleys PointKissing Meadowbank Rydalmere

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

DRINK EAT DISCOVER REPEAT

48 Traders | 2 Bars | Hawker Eats | Central Market

Fresh Produce | Fully Licensed

Corner of Thomas and Hay Street, Haymarket