Sydney city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in Australia’s magnificent harbour city

Sprawling around one of the planet’s biggest and most beautiful natural harbours, Sydney is perhaps the ultimate city destination in Australia. With its swoon-worthy physical attributes, laid-back charm and trio of icons – namely the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and sweeping Bondi Beach – the New South Wales capital almost effortlessly wows.

Though the city stretches westwards way beyond Parramatta (Sydney’s geographic heart) to the base of the Blue Mountains, nearly all its visitor appeal lies in the city centre, central suburbs and the beaches. Founded in 1788, Australia’s first British settlement has evolved into a true world city that’s liveliest when Mardi Gras fills the streets with sequins, parades and parties.

If you’re heading Down Under, our Sydney guide provides a heads-up on what to do, where to eat and drink, and the best spots to stay in the Harbour City.

What to do

Access all arias

You can’t miss Sydney Opera House. Designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and opened in 1973, this concrete-and-ceramic-tile masterpiece celebrated its 50th anniversary with a major renovation of its performance spaces. Ideally, immerse yourself in an opera, concert, recital or play; otherwise take a tour (from £22pp) to discover those rooftop sails and the building’s history.

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Bridge the gap

Sydney’s second major landmark, the Harbour Bridge, unites the CBD (central business district) with the North Shore suburbs. For those with a head for heights (and the best part of £150 to spare), Bridge Climb is the classic experience. Alternatively, take the train to North Sydney and walk back over the bridge for free, with the Opera House and city skyline before you.

Beach day

Sydneysider culture goes big on the beach. Bondi is the icon for its fine sand, surfer scene and Icebergs saltwater pool, or hop on the ferry to Manly and its similarly sandy, pine-tree-lined promenade. Not a fan of waves? Stay within the harbour: the North Shore’s Fairlight Beach or more hidden-away Castle Rock Beach are fantastic.

Go walkabout

All around the harbour, fragments of foreshore and bushland constitute Sydney Harbour National Park. Weaving much of it together is the 80km…