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Sydney travel guide

There’s always something going on in Sydney. With world class cultural festivals, a dazzling natural harbour, epic beachside walks (not to mention beaches), a cutting-edge restaurant and bar scene, excellent live music and theatre, and an unquenchable thirst for fun, you’ll never get bored in this most famous of Australian cities. Take the Manly Ferry, climb the Harbour Bridge, swim at Icebergs, catch some stand-up in Enmore, shop in the hipster boutiques of Balmain… the possibilities in Sydney are endless. If you’re planning a visit, explore our Sydney travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time in this always-on city. We’ve collected the best tips from our travel experts, and have the best advice on things to do, when to travel, where to stay, getting around and more. There’s also a guide to Sydney Airport if you’re jetting in from out of town.

Where to stay

If you’re not a local or particularly familiar with the city, you may have some trouble deciding where to stay in Sydney. After all, the city is sprawling!  The good news is you really can’t go wrong when choosing a base for your time here. Will you wake up with views of the harbour and the hustle and bustle of the city below you? Maybe you’d like to tuck yourself away along a terrace-lined street, with quaint coffee shops and beautiful gardens as your neighbours. Wherever you decide to stay, there’s bound to be something to enjoy right on your doorstep.

Things to do

You'll find no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. Whether you’re exploring the iconic structures that line the expansive harbourfront, taking in the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, relaxing on the inviting sands of Bondi Beach, or immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife, your to-do list will be the envy of many!

Getting Around

Sydney transport is designed to be accessible and worry-free. Finding your way around the CBD is as easy as hopping on a bus or taking a trip on the light-rail. Getting yourself to one of Sydney’s famous beaches like Manly or Watson’s Bay is simple too – just climb aboard a ferry from Circular Quay. If time is sensitive or you need to travel further afield, Sydney taxis are ready to take you wherever you need to go. 

Where to eat

Sydney food and drink is the epitome of diverse dining. The bustling markets that inhabit the city blend historical-style trade with endless delectable culinary creations. Famous also for their fresh produce, iconic Sydney marketplaces in Chinatown, Potts Point, and Bondi offer you a chance to taste the absolute best in everything home-grown. ...

Shopping

With homespun markets, high-end fashion retailers and boutique pop-ups, shopping in Sydney is as diverse as the people who live here. Find one-off pieces and indulge in the latest in quality fashion all in the space of a few blocks.  Westfield Sydney, The Strand Arcade, and the Queen Victoria Building are three massive destinations to kickstart your inner-city shopping spree.  For a change of pace, why not take a stroll along some of the best markets in Sydney? Be sure to treat yourself to something perfectly delicious along the way!

Best time to travel

The weather in Sydney comprises a sunny climate with mild winters and warm summers, perfect for making the most of the great outdoors. The best time to visit Sydney will depend largely on your personal preference and your ideal getaway plans. You can enjoy the stunning coastal headlands from summer right through winter, and the mild weather and drop in humidity also makes for perfect whale-watching conditions, in autumn and winter. 

Beaches

Prepare for sun, surf, and sand when you visit Sydney! New South Wales’ capital is home to some of the most iconic beaches in all of Australia. Whether you’re taking a dip in the rolling waves at Bondi, lounging at a seaside cafe in Manly, or having a picnic along a tranquil stretch of sand in Balmoral, Sydney beaches are sensational in any season. ...