Sydney - vibrant, stylish, alluring. You can get through a starry sky of adjectives describing this dazzling city.
Sydney has come a long way. Aboriginal people have always lived in Sydney, especially the Gadigal people. Then came the arrival of the First British Fleet in 1788, when Sydney became a less than gorgeous penal colony. These days Sydney is regularly featured on all those lists of the top 10 places to live or visit before you die.
Sydney is also Australia’s most visited city, here's the inside scoop to the best of everything the city has to offer.
Best Value
* The Sydney CBD is easy to get around. Start your tour with a free walking tour. Rain, or shine, I'm Free Walking Tours happen everyday at 10.30am and 2.30pm.
* The dramatic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk offers plenty of coves and beaches for a dip or a delicious lunch. Starting at Bondi Iceburgs, it should takes 2 hours with children along. Catch the train from Central to Bondi Junction, then a bus to Bondi Beach
* Walk across the Harbour Bridge and take in the panoramic views or, for about $11, visit the Pylon Lookout and get amazing views and 3 levels of exhibits about the history of the Bridge.
* Hyde Park, Australia’s oldest park, is the city’s central green space. Walk along the is an impressive fig lined central pathway through the park to St Mary’s Cathedral, numerous monuments and statues.
* Walk from the Opera House until you reach to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, one of the best places to see Sydney. Take a picnic and a nice bottle of wine!
Best Experience
* To discover a quieter, calmer side of Sydney Harbour, try the Middle Harbour Eco Tour using kayaks.
* Learn to Surf Bondi, the south facing beach is perfect for beginners as you are protected and the surf is tamer. Let’s Go Surfing is the learn-to-surf company in Bondi.
* Prefer slow and elegant? Sydney Tall Ships offer tours of Sydney Harbour whilst dining on barbecued prawns, fresh oysters, crab rolls and sipping a glass of chilled champagne.
Best by District
* Paddington - Pretty Victorian terraces, boutique shopping and the famous Saturday market.
* Circular Quay – Bustling with the endless shops, outdoor cafes and restaurants that line the harbour.
* Manly - Top family seaside. Sheltered swimming, aquarium, palm trees, fish and chips on the promenade.
* The historic Rocks District - Cobblestone streets and weekend markets.
* Newtown - Great coffee, funky bars and multi-ethnic cuisine.
* Surry Hills - Old terrace homes, home to many local artists.