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Discover Sydney's Wonders

Most recognize the iconic structure along Sydney's harbor, the Sydney Opera House. Its distinctive sail-like design reflects the water and the light of the setting sun, turning the arced features a shade of red-orange to rival the Australian outback sand. Sydney's harbor, Darling Harbor and Circle Quay, are teaming with marine life, a major draw for visitors around the world. For a truly spectacular view of the city, head to the top of the Sydney Tower where the outdoor platform, the Skywalk, gives you a 360 degree view over Sydney. For a more adrenaline fueled vantage point, try climbing the famously arched Harbor Bridge to the top and stare out over the edge to the beatiful and lively city below.

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Description

Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to beautiful beaches such as world-famous Bondi Beach, iconic buildings, historic landmarks, acclaimed restaurants, and a vibrant culture. From the breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour to the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Garden, the city is a delight for everyone. If you're looking for a holiday adventure, planning a honeymoon, or searching for a fun-filled getaway, Sydney is a great destination.

Useful information

Population:

Over 5.3 million

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Emergency Info:

Emergency situations, police, ambulance, fire brigade: 000

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open 9 am to 5 pm daily, with late night trading on Thursday to 9 pm.

Top Things to Do

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Established in 1871, the Art Gallery of NSW showcases fine Australian and international modern and contemporary works in expansive, light-filled spaces. The Grand Courts are home to a collection of colonial Australian works and European old masters, while dedicated galleries celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork and Asian collections. Regular guided tours are offered in Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese and Korean.

BridgeClimb

One of the most exciting ways to experience the Sydney Harbour Bridge is to climb to the top of it. Exhilarating and utterly unforgettable, BridgeClimb gives you the opportunity to walk to the summit of the bridge and enjoy one of the world's most spectacular views, 134 metres (440ft) above the water. Standing above Sydney Harbour — on the world's largest (but not longest) steel arch bridge — gives an incredible panoramic vantage point of the city, its harbour and waterways, and the dynamic lifestyle it affords locals and visitors alike.

Luna Park

Enjoy all the fun of Luna Park, an amusement park on the edge of Sydney Harbour. It was originally built in the 1930s and rides include the fabulous Ferris Wheel, the Tango Train, the Giant Slide, the Space Shuttle and the Big Dipper rollercoaster. There are side shows — the Laughing Clowns, Crazy Crooners and Goin’ Fishin’ — complete with classic carnival prizes. Treat yourself with hot dogs, fairy floss and fish 'n chips. This iconic landmark is on the State Heritage Register, and has been a family favourite for generations of Australians.

Madame Tussauds Sydney

Get up close and personal with over 75 of the world's most iconic celebrities and Australia's very own stars. Celebrities on display include Lady Gaga, Leonardo Di Caprio, Justin Bieber, Kylie Minogue, Michael Hutchence, Jimmy Barnes, Mark Webber, Nicole Kidman, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie and many more, along with fascinating facts on every star. Walk along the red carpet and revel in the unique atmosphere of glamour, fame and history at Madame Tussauds Sydney and go on an interactive star-studded journey through the world of music, sport, culture, film and much more.

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

The MCA is on the edge of Sydney Harbour and is Australia's leading museum dedicated to contemporary art from across Australia and around the world. In the historic Rocks, the MCA has a steady stream of exhibitions and events are hosted throughout the year. From established artists to new work by emerging artists in painting, sculpture, video, installation and more, there's something to inspire everyone at the MCA. And there are harbour vistas from the rooftop cafe.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium in Darling Harbour is one of the world's largest aquariums, with 650 species and 12,000 animals in six million litres of water. It has two of only five dugongs on display in the world. Go on a journey of amazing discovery through the Tropical Bay of Rays, Discovery Rockpool, Mangrove Swamps, South Coast Shipwreck, Dugong Island, Shark Walk and the stunning ocean tunnel walk through Shark Valley.

Sydney Fish Market

Sydney Fish Market at Pyrmont is one of the largest fish markets in the world. Business begins at 5:30am, when seafood buyers arrive to vie for the best of the day's catch — 2,700 crates of fresh seafood. Buy something for the barbecue, or enjoy lunch on the wharf overlooking the water. You can also reserve a behind the scenes tour to see all the action or join a seafood cookery class hosted by one of Australia's leading chefs.

Sydney Harbour Cruise

The magnificent harbour is one of Sydney’s greatest assets. For splendid views, take a cruise and enjoy one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours. There are dozens of cruises to choose from, starting with the famous Captain Cook lunch or dinner cruises. Public ferries depart from Circular Quay, or you can take a Tall Ship from The Rocks, a whale-watching cruise from Darling Harbour, or sail aboard a catamaran from Rose Bay.

Do & See

Australian Museum

Established in 1827 and the first in the country, the Australian Museum has an international reputation in natural history and in indigenous studies, research, community programmes and accessible, innovative exhibitions. View unique and extensive science and cultural collections, multimedia exhibitions of physics and of indigenous Australian culture and native animals. The permanent Dinosaur exhibition features an awe-inspiring collection of skeletons and answers many age-old questions.

Big Bus Sydney & Bondi Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Discover Sydney's top attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour, and the popular Bondi Beach on the Big Bus sightseeing tour. Enjoy unobstructed views of the Emerald City's highlights from the open-top, double-decker bus. Learn about Sydney's sights and history from the recorded onboard commentary. Go in-depth at any given place by simply hopping off the bus to explore at your own leisure.

Blue Mountains Day Trip from Sydney

Leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind to experience lush valleys, waterfalls, gorges, mountains, and forests on a day trip to the majestic Blue Mountains. Enjoy sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and sites, including the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley. Hop onboard the Scenic Railway at Scenic World, enjoy a chef-prepared lunch, and visit Featherdale Wildlife Park to see kangaroos and other native Australian critters. Then, enjoy a relaxing, scenic cruise to Sydney Harbour along the Parramatta River.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

There's no better way to enjoy the beauty of the Sydney coastline than from the winding cliff walk between Bondi and Coogee beaches. These paths become a stage for whale watching between May and November, the backdrop for Sculpture by the Sea in October-November, and a year-round vantage point to watch surfers carve up the waves. Take in Aboriginal rock carving at Mark's Park, big surf at Tamarama, snorkelling at the coves of Clovelly and Gordons Bay, and the white sands of Coogee Beach. Stop off at the Bronte café strip along the way and cool off with a refreshing dip in an ocean pool.

Centennial Parklands

A short bus ride from the city centre, Centennial Parklands contain beautiful gardens, an entertainment quarter, 18-hole golf course, sporting fields, tennis courts, equestrian facilities and Fox Studios, which makes films. About 15,000 trees grow in Centennial Parklands' three parks: Centennial Park, Queens Park and Moore Park. Enjoy a picnic under one of the trees or by a tranquil pond. In Centennial Park there's a cafe and a restaurant, and the EQ Village Markets are open on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Moore Park.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

Stepping into this fascinating garden in the middle of bustling Chinatown, is like stepping into a haven of tranquillity. The garden combines old world Chinese architectural principles, with an harmonious balance of running waterfalls, wooden bridges, towering willow trees and colourful koi and carp swimming in lagoons dotted with lotus. Visit the Courtyard of Welcoming Fragrance and the Twin Pavilion, then take a jasmine tea in the traditional Chinese Teahouse.

Cockatoo Island

A short ferry ride from Circular Quay in the city centre is Sydney Harbour's largest island and one of Australia's most fascinating historical sites that's on the World Heritage list. Take an audio tour or self-guided journey and explore the island's convict and ship-building history. Cockatoo Island is the only Sydney Harbour island where you can stay overnight in what Lonely Planet described as "one of the world's most spectacularly located campsites".

Darling Harbour

A lively entertainment precinct, Darling Harbour is a 10-minute walk from Town Hall in the city centre. One of Sydney's largest harbourside dining, shopping and entertainment precincts, Darling Harbour enjoys a full calendar of events as well as one of the city's most enchanting gardens - the Chinese Garden of Friendship. You'll also find a zoo, aquarium and a maritime museum. Cockle Bay and King Street Wharf offer funky nightclubs, wine bars and bistros serving fine food and great cocktails.

Dining

ARIA Sydney

Owned by chef Matt Moran and renowned restaurateur Peter Sullivan, ARIA is a prestigious chef's hatted restaurant on the edge of Sydney Harbour at Circular Quay. ARIA offers an unparalleled dining experience with striking views, an award-winning menu and extensive wine list, served in an elegant dining room.

Bennelong at the Opera House

Under the iconic ‘white sails’ of the Sydney Opera House, Bennelong showcases Australian produce and wine in a majestic setting. One of the world’s top chefs, Peter Gilmore, is at the helm of Bennelong. Awarded two hats in the 2016 Good Food Guide, Bennelong offers several dining options.

Café Sydney

On the roof of the 19th century Customs House, this restaurant captures the very essence of Sydney dining with spectacular harbour views, an outdoor terrace for fine days and delightful nights, a cocktail lounge, and a relaxed modern interior. The menu features contemporary classics using fresh seasonal produce, with seafood a speciality.

Chiswick Woollahra

Located in the beautiful neighbourhood of Woollahra in Sydney's east, Chiswick is a superb casual dining venue co-owned by Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan. With charming floor-to-ceiling French windows, and an open kitchen where chefs prepare dishes to share made from fresh produce straight from the kitchen garden outside — this restaurant is a delight.

Icebergs Dining Room & Bar Bondi

Named after Sydney’s iconic swimming club — Bondi Icebergs — that swims in the ocean pool at Bondi Beach, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is consistently awarded chef's hats. Since opening in 2002, the restaurant's spectacular views, superb cuisine and atmosphere of relaxed elegance have delighted visitors from all over the world. Under the direction of head chef Paul Wilson, the menu focuses on seafood dishes with an Italian flavour.

Infinity at Sydney Tower

360 Bar and Dining is the revolving restaurant high above the city in Sydney Tower, with gorgeous 360-degree views of Sydney and beyond. The sophisticated restaurant has a menu consisting of Modern Australian cuisine, and is the perfect spot for a romantic date.

Monopole Restaurant & Bar

Brent Savage and Nick Hildebrandt, of the renowned Bentley in the city, launched Monopole Restaurant and Bar in the heart of Sydney’s elegant Potts Point in 2012. Even over a decade later and after a decisive move to Sydney CBD, Monopole never fails to impress with innovative, seasonal dishes and a celebrated wine list. To spice things up, they've introduced a biweekly-changing set menu for Saturday nights. Expect delights like spanner crab with corn custard, Flinders Island scallop with finger lime, and Yellow's famed liquorice bread. Don your best attire and confirm it for yourself.

Mr Wong

This grand 240-seater is a love letter to the great Cantonese restaurants of Hong Kong. Timeless colonial furnishings — timber floors, bamboo French chairs and slow turning fans — and the Cantonese-influenced contemporary Chinese menu of over 60 dishes, have won Mr Wong multiple restaurant awards including two chef's hats.

Bars, Pubs & Nightlife

Baxter Inn

Head underground to the candle-lit basement of the Baxter Inn. 360 premium whiskies line the cabinets of this speakeasy-themed drinking den. With thick carpet, jazz and blues, beer on tap, a wine and port cellar, and a whisky for every day of the year - Baxter Inn is more than inviting. To top off the great service, you also get bartenders ringing the old boxing bell and tooting a trumpet at shot time.

Hemmesphere

On the fourth floor of the Establishment Precinct is a world of opulence, inspired by the sophistication of the Ottoman Empire. Hemmesphere, derived from the surname of founder Justin Hemmes, features exotic furnishings, low lounges and ambient lighting, which create an intimate atmosphere for any evening out. Fancy cocktails are available in abundance, vintage drams and select wines add to the mix, as does a compact menu of Japanese bento boxes, platters, and supper snacks.

Hugos Manly

On the Manly Wharf, Hugos Manly is one of Sydney's waterfront restaurants with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. A delicious mix of pizza and pasta, the menu was created by celebrity chef Pete Evans. You'll also be impressed by the skills of the award-winning bar team. Take a ferry from Circular Quay across the sparkling harbour and soak up the lovely atmosphere of Hugos Manly.

ivy

Ivy is an entertainment palace in the city centre. From cocktail bars and dancing to bistros and a rooftop pool bar, ivy is a Sydney party destination. Enter via Angel Place laneway and head to French bar and bistro Felix for a dry Martini, or to Ash Street Cellar for tapas. Palings, on level one, delivers Mod Oz cuisine. Up the elevator you’ll discover a sparkling rooftop pool at the Ivy Pool Club. Friday hip-hop nights and Pacha Saturdays offer dance party heaven.

Marble Bar

Built in 1893 and preserved in all its opulent glory, the Marble Bar is a delightful Victorian-era bar underneath the Hilton Hotel in the city centre. A hundred tonnes of the best marble in the world were used to build the bar, creating a splendid ambience. The Marble Bar is a great place to enjoy fine Australian wines and beers and classic cocktails and Australian beer. Enjoy live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

O Bar & Dining

A stylish escape 47 floors up in the sky, O Bar and Dining's vast circular layout provides 360-degree views of beautiful Sydney and beyond. Located at Australia Square, a landmark building near The Rocks, the ambient light, plush couches and deep leather chairs ensure a night at O Bar is an enchanting experience. There's tapas for sharing, and the delightful cocktail list is based on fragrance and seasonality. On the revolving lower level, guests can recline while dining on a Modern Australian menu and enjoying spectacular views.

Opera Bar

Opera Bar has spectacular views of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge from the lower concourse of the World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House. You'll enjoy delicious food prepared by talented chefs at this world-class destination for dining and drinking. Enjoy drinks and dinner before a performance at the Sydney Opera House. In a truly splendid setting, Opera Bar is great fun, with a buzzing atmosphere, any time. And the sunsets are glorious.

Palmer & Co

Hidden up a laneway with a secret entrance, this swanky underground cocktail bar, located beneath the Establishment, has an American-inspired bar menu, with dishes like pastrami on rye and macaroni and cheese, and an incredible list of drinks and cocktails such as the power-packed Prohibition. Bartenders are dressed to the nines in Great Gatsby style, to capture the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Settle into a lounge, take in the live music and enjoy the warm glow.

Shopping

Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre

Sydney’s original factory outlet centre offers fashion designer labels at up to 70% off regular retail prices. Located beside the Birkenhead Point Marina, enjoy spectacular views of Sydney Harbour while you browse through a huge range of your favourite fashion and lifestyle brands.

Bondi Markets

The Bondi Markets, established in 1993, are open Sundays in the beachfront grounds of Bondi Beach Public School. Discover original local designer clothing and imported fashions, handmade jewellery, arts, crafts, homewares, retro furniture, vintage clothes and more. After browsing in the markets, stroll to the world-famous Bondi Beach and enjoy the white sands and curling waves.

Carriageworks Farmers Market

Every Saturday, more than 70 farmers and artisan food producers pack their trucks with fresh, seasonal and homemade produce and head for the Carriageworks Farmers Market. Lovers of fresh produce and fine food can find a variety of goods including artisan breads, olive oil, boutique wine, sweets and gourmet fare from dips to chutneys.

Glebe Markets

Browse through the many and varied stalls featuring a treasure of goods, from original design clothing to pre-loved attire, books, records, jewellery, accessories, art and bric-à-brac. Enjoy multicultural food stalls and outdoor entertainment including bands, jugglers and acrobats.

MidCity Centre

Like a personal stylist, MidCity Style Space provides all the tools for you to put together the perfect look. Take a walk through its four levels, including bold looks for men and women, fitness solutions to get that body into shape, and boutique dining. It is small enough to be effortless and big enough to be rewarding.

Oxford Street

A popular shopping destination for its boutiques, Oxford Street stretches through Sydney's eastern neighbourhoods of Darlinghurst, Paddington and Woollahra. Explore designer fashion houses, art galleries, booksellers, furniture shops and take a shopping break in one of the many trendy cafés or enjoy lunch at one of the beautifully restored pubs in the main street or in side streets.

Paddington Markets

Every Saturday, local fashion designers, craftspeople, jewellery makers and artists fill more than 150 stalls with creative fashion, accessories, handcrafted goods and pictures that keep inspiring new generations of Sydneysiders, year in and year out. In the heart of Paddington, the markets have been operating since 1973.

Paddy’s Markets

Paddy's Markets has held a central place in Sydney's history for over 150 years. In the Chinatown area, explore hundreds of stalls stocked with a wide range of goods, from souvenirs to sporting goods, clothes to cosmetics, footwear to sheepskins, plants, fruit and vegetables, an amazing food court and more.

Tourist Information

Sydney Airport (SYD)

Nestled on the northern shores of Botany Bay in Sydney's Mascot suburb, you'll find the grand Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport — the world's oldest continually operated commercial airport. By car Looking for a taxi? They're ready and waiting outside all the terminals. Fancy driving yourself? You can grab a rental car at any terminal. Just remember, the car park is free as long as you're exiting within 15 minutes. By train The city centre is a brisk 13-minute train journey from the airport. The Airport Link, which runs about every 10 minutes, is your ticket to the city and beyond. The train station? It's up north of the terminal, accessible from Arrivals. Pay for your journey with an Opal Card (grab one from the station or WH Smith), or tap on with your Amex, Visa, or Mastercard. By bus Route 420, run by Sydney Buses, is a dependable service connecting Mascot Station to Burwood via the airport. Both T1 International and T3 Domestic terminals have stops, clearly marked on the arrivals level. You'll need an Opal transport card or a credit card to board. By shuttle For a more personalised transfer to and from the airport, there are several providers offering services to most of Sydney's suburbs and regional areas. Check out Mozio for options. By bike If two wheels are more your speed, undercover bike racks are situated on level 1 of the T1 International terminal and near the express pick-up area in the T2/T3 Domestic precinct.

Public Transport

The Sydney public transport system consists of commuter rail, bus, ferry and light rail. Combined, they can get you virtually anywhere in the metropolitan area. A handy companion for this network is the Opal card, your ticket to all public transport in Sydney. It caps daily and weekly fares (excluding Sydney Airport station fees) and can be picked up from train stations, the airport, and various city retailers. Tap on and off at Opal readers with the card, or use contactless-enabled Amex, Mastercard, or Visa cards or linked devices. Buses are the city's lifelines, and include NightRide services for the wee hours. Central Station, near Chinatown, is your hub for local and regional trains and buses, with routes covering CBD, North Sydney, Bondi Junction, and the airport. Sydney's light rail features the L1 Inner West network from Central Station to Dulwich Hill, and the CBD and South East Light Rail with lines to Randwick and Junior Kingsford. The ferry system is your quick, scenic route across the harbour, with departures from Circular Quay to destinations like Manly, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, and Rose Bay. Captain Cook also runs services to various spots, including Watsons Bay, Manly, Clifton Gardens, and Shark Island. The river ferry offers a scenic 90-minute journey from Circular Quay to Parramatta, with stops at places like Cockatoo Island and Sydney Olympic Park.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient way to get around Sydney. They can be flagged down, found at a taxi rank, or booked on the phone or online. Silver Service Fleet Phone: +61 133 100 www.silverservice.com.au Legion Cabs Phone: +61 131 451 www.legioncabs.com.au Premier Cabs Phone:+61 131 017 www.premiercabs.com.au St George Cabs Phone: +61 132 166 www.stgeorgecabs.com.au

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

In Sydney, and Australia more broadly, there are several major pharmacy chains where you can pick up over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, personal care items, and more. The major pharmacy chains are Chemist Warehouse, TerryWhite Chemmart, Priceline Pharmacy, Amcal and Blooms The Chemist. It's always worth checking the opening hours as these can vary, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Post Office

There are numerous Australia Post offices located all over Sydney, where you can buy stamps and send mail and packages. Sydney's General Post Office is located at 1 Martin Place.

Telephone

Australian Country Code: +61 Sydney City Area Code: 02 Calling Sydney landlines from overseas: +612 Calling Australian mobiles from overseas: +614 Calling overseas from within Australia: 0011

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top things to do in Sydney?

Sydney offers a rich mix of sightseeing, guided tours, and local activities. On Keytours you can browse the most popular tours and experiences in Sydney and book them instantly.

What is the best time to visit Sydney?

The ideal time to visit Sydney depends on the experience you're after. Check the current weather and seasonal information on this page to plan your trip around the best conditions.

How do I get around Sydney?

You can arrange private airport transfers and local transport for Sydney directly through Keytours, ensuring a comfortable arrival and easy travel throughout your stay.

Where should I stay in Sydney?

Sydney has accommodation for every style, from boutique city stays to seaside resorts. Explore our handpicked hotels in Sydney to find the right base for your trip.

Can I book tours, hotels, and transfers together for Sydney?

Yes. With Keytours you can combine tours, activities, hotels, and transfers for Sydney in a single booking, making it easy to plan your entire trip in one place.

How do I book a trip to Sydney with Keytours?

Simply choose your preferred tours, hotels, or activities in Sydney on this page, select your dates, and complete your secure booking online. Our team is available to help at any step.

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