quayquartersydney.com.au @quayquartersydney
TWO ICONIC DISCOVER OUR SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
SYDNEY & BONDI
PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY
WELCOME
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 communities also have a strong connection to our local area. Redfern, on our city’s fringe, celebrates Indigenous culture, music and community at the annual Yabun Festival.
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, with innovative and exciting cuisine, showing off Australia’s abundance of fresh ingredients. But some of our most soughtafter 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 entry to the Royal Botanic Gardens. 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 impressive 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 local streets. We offer designer boutiques and craft markets, a vibrant local theatre community and world-class cafes, pubs and restaurants, just a short trip from our city centre by bus, train or light rail. We also have free street parties throughout the year, featuring local businesses and performers.
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
The Lord Mayor of Sydney
CLOVER MOORE
A DECADE OF SERVICE
» CEO CAPTAIN PHIL HOLLIDAY
welcomes guests as the Port Authority of NSW celebrates its 10th anniversary
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 warm and languid spring 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
G’day and on behalf of the Port Authority of New South Wales, I warmly welcome you to Sydney, Australia. You have arrived at one of the most iconic harbour cities in the world, surrounded by famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, as well as our vibrant city centre, which are all just a short distance away.
We hope you enjoyed your cruise and now look forward to experiencing the very best Sydney and its surrounds has to offer. Local attractions are plentiful with Sydney’s famous Taronga Zoo a short ferry ride away, as well as restaurants, bars, an aquarium, theatres and shopping precincts.
There is so much to do, taste and see. You can also enjoy the uniqueness of our diverse city at your own pace by taking in the natural beauty of our glistening harbour, or strolling in the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden, or visiting World Heritage sites in our NSW National Parks, all while immersing yourself in our rich cultural heritage and history.
Port Authority of NSW proudly operates two dedicated cruise terminals in Sydney, the Overseas Passenger Terminal and White Bay Cruise Terminal. It is our pleasure to be of service and we take great pride in making your journey to and from your ship an enjoyable one.
I hope you enjoy your visit to Sydney and I wish you all the best for your stay and we hope to see you visit our port again.
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 Sydney 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’m 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 MAPS
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
Chris Singh, Melissa Williams
Main contributors
Lucy Jones, Melinda Ayre
Commercial Director
Phil Mahony
Advertising sales
Vida Folden, Kylie Gibson
Printed by IVE
Big Splash Media, Suite G01, 46a Macleay St, Potts Point, Sydney 2011. (02) 9356 8888. sydneytravelguide.com.au
Cover: SKYWALK, Sydney Tower Eye. Merlin Entertainment.
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 efforts 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.
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SPRING HIGHLIGHTS
Sydney puts on quite a show in spring! See our list of the mustsee attractions and experiences taking place in the city from now until December.
27
SYDNEY TOP 15
Iconic things to do in Sydney, no matter the season.
31
PLACES OF INTEREST
Your bucket list of city hotspots, precincts and places to see.
45
SIGHTSEEING
Sydney’s harbour, villages, walks and beaches. Plus vouchers to help you enjoy your stay.
55 FOOD AND DRINK
From classic pub grub to highend dining to unique Sydney experiences, these are the must-taste flavours of the city.
61
NIGHTLIFE
Pumping pubs, boogie bars, cool cocktails, after-dark eats... Find out where to party in Sydney until the wee hours.
68
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
From contemporary galleries to hidden regional gems and Indigenous art, Sydney’s art scene is world class.
77
SYDNEY SHOPPING
Big brands, Aussie labels, shops and malls – choose your own shopping adventure in these fabulous retail hotspots.
87
EXPERIENCES
Brave the Bridge Climb, cuddle a koala or take in the splendour of the coastline with a heli tour.
94
TRANSPORT
How to get around our city by bus, taxi, light rail, train, ferry and hire bike.
96
SYDNEY RAIL NETWORK
Plan your adventures around town, including on the new metro.
*Maps copyright Locl Tours –free walking tours at locltour.com +61 (0) 425 291 425
SPRING HIGHLIGHTS
Peter Lynch, Publisher
FOR MORE SEE: SYDNEY TRAVEL GUIDE .COM.AU
A city in full bloom
Welcome to Sydney in the best season of them all: spring. If ever a city and a season were made for each other, Sydney and spring are that magical couple. The city bursts into vibrancy as the weather warms up, nature paints the landscapes with colourful blossoms, and a lively calendar of events unfolds. At this time of year Sydney truly shines.
Sydney’s parks and gardens become a canvas for nature’s artistry. The Royal Botanic Garden’s annual Spring Festival celebrates this transformation, filling the air with fragrant blooms. The streets come alive with celebrations, from the vibrant street parades of the Sydney Fringe Festival (August to October) to the Spring Racing Carnival.
World-class theatre productions are open, from Sunset Boulevard and Hamilton to Titanique and Jesus Christ Superstar. Take in a performance at Sydney Opera House, immerse yourself in a thought-provoking exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, or discover hidden gems at the many independent theatres and galleries.
The pleasant spring weather is perfect for exploring Sydney. Take a stroll through the historic Rocks district, marvel at the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge, or soak up the sun on the golden sands of Bondi Beach. Venture further afield using our fabulous new Metro system – there is a map on page 96. Be sure to view the art at each stop.
You couldn’t have chosen a better time or place to visit than Sydney in spring.
THE CALYX, ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN SYDNEY
Choose your own Aussie adventure
» Combine entry to WILD LIFE, Madame Tussauds Sydney, SEA LIFE and Sydney Tower Eye to save over 50 per cent admission!
MEET THE AUSSIE BIG 5
Begin your Sydney adventure by heading to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, where you’ll meet Australia’s famous Big 5: koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, wombats and the elusive platypus. WILD LIFE will also take you up close and personal with other local legends like bilbies, quolls and tawny frogmouths, and their immersive enclosures make for a truly wild experience.
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, wildlifesydney.com.au
DIP INTO THE DEEP BLUE
At SEA LIFE be amazed by more than 4000 marine creatures, including a cheeky dugong named ‘Pig’ and 13 species of sharks. Take a thrilling ride on the Penguin Expedition Boat Ride – the world’s first of its kind – or add extra VIP encounters like behind-the-scenes tours, penguin meet-and-greets or a heart-pounding shark dive inside the aquarium, without a cage!
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, visitsealife.com/sydney
COSY UP TO CELEBS
Madame Tussauds Sydney has your backstage pass to more than 100 life-like figures of Aussie icons and
global stars, from musicians to movie legends from Chris Hemsworth to Cate Blanchett. Step into the spotlight with interactive experiences, answer the call of the Justice League, or strike a pose in the glitzy Illuminate Sydney zone with your fave A-listers. Marvel at the expert craftsmanship which takes more than 100 exact measurements to create each figure.
Madame Tussauds Sydney, 1-5 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour, madametussauds.com/sydney
SKY-HIGH VIEWS & DINING
Finish your day in style at the Sydney Tower Eye. Perched 250 metres above the city streets, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic skyline. Go one step further by booking a SKYWALK or a VIP Adventure for a special treat with cocktails and dining options. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Blue Mountains 80km away.
Sydney Tower Eye, Westfield Sydney, Level 5/108 Market St, Sydney
GET YOUR BIG TICKET
Choose a Sydney Big Ticket and combine two, three or four attractions to save BIG, plus enjoy full exibility with passes valid for 30 to 60 days. sydneybigticket.com.au
SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM
WILD LIFE SYDNEY ZOO
MADAME TUSSAUDS
SPRING HIGHLIGHTS
Featured events
» Once the winter cold starts to fade, Sydney springs to life with vibrant art festivals and forward-thinking events, blooming into three busy months packed with left-field art, largeformat festivals, and Australia’s favourite excuse to dress up and day drink in the sun.
SEPTEMBER
SYDNEY FRINGE FESTIVAL
Spring’s opening month is all about dancing on the fringes. The Sydney Fringe Festival has been sprinkling the city with eccentricity since 2010, drawing in almost 80,000 art lovers each year and shouldering hundreds of events across the city’s finest performance art spaces. For 2024, the multi-genre arts extravaganza kicks things into high gear with signature events such as the 27 Club, a rock’n’roll show unlike any other, featuring tributes to icons such as Amy Winehouse and Janis Joplin. Pop-up piano bars, epic feasts and musical parodies feature across more than 400 events, so plan ahead and get ready to veer decidedly left of centre.
Various locations, September 1-30, sydneyfringe.com
POWER UP FESTIVAL
The historic White Bay Power Station in Rozelle will be electrified with the inaugural Power Up, a three-day lifestyle festival with free entry all weekend. Food and drink from some of Sydney’s most dependable stars, circus performers and magic shows, live music,
hundreds of artworks, and heritage tours will be packed into the bohemian-like factory space, which gets plenty of character from decommissioned machinery pre-dating the 1950s. The decommissioned plant has been deemed Sydney’s next big performing arts venue, so this is a great chance to see it come to life in its early stages.
White Bay Power Station, Robert St, Rozelle, September 20-22, whitebaypowerstation.com
OCTOBER
GHOST IN THE ROCKS HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL
The Rocks precinct is turning into a ghost town this Halloween, filled with eerie sights, including massive tentacles slithering out from buildings, murder mystery parties, a haunted house and zombie disco. This brand-new festival in Sydney’s
GHOST IN THE ROCKS
POWER UP FESTIVAL
oldest neighbourhood will also host a Ghost Cinema dedicated to horror movies and thrillers, and a parade of costumed characters and spooky floats. Today The Rocks is a vibrant hub of cafes, shopping and some of Sydney’s best bars and restaurants, but it was once a much darker corner of the city. The perfect setting for one big celebration of all things Halloween. The Rocks, October 31-November 3, therocks.com
SXSW SYDNEY
Based on the iconic innovation, technology and culture festival running in Austin, Texas since 1987, SXSW Sydney enters its second year as one of the biggest showcase events in the Asia Pacific. More than 1000 events and networking sessions will sit side-by-side with music, arts, gaming, tech, food and
drink, turning Sydney into a well of forward-thinking ideas and unique pop-ups from the world’s biggest brands. In addition to an array of ticketed experiences, there will be more than 60 hours of free programming in and around Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park throughout the action-packed festival. Various locations, October 14-20, sxswsydney.com
NOVEMBER
MELBOURNE CUP
Melbourne Cup lays track further down the coast, but Sydney still sees a vibrant display of spring carnivals, fashion on the fields and decadent long lunches. Live like a local and head to Westfield to shop David Jones’ spring fashion collection, as well as a combination of high-end luxury brands and high-street fashion. Then scoot over to Royal Randwick Racecourse to see everyone strut in their finest threads at the Australian Turf Club. Epic six-hour beverage packages, high-end dining, live entertainment and competitions are strung throughout the day, all anchored by a live screening of the big race. It’s worth going just for the people-watching.
Australian Turf Club, Royal Randwick Racecourse, Alison Rd, Randwick, November 5, australianturfclub.com.au
MELBOURNE CUP
SXSW SYDNEY
Stage
» From legendary rock operas and irreverent blockbusters to profound tales of triumph and bravery, Sydney’s stages are set for some spectacular productions in the coming months.
SEPTEMBER
SUNSET BOULEVARD
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony-winning Sunset Boulevard will debut at the Sydney Opera House just as spring starts to bloom. Playing through to early November, the glamorous musical lifts Billy Wilder’s classic 1950 tale of a down-on-his-luck writer and his volatile relationship with a faded Hollywood star desperate to crawl her way back into the limelight. Soprano Sarah Brightman leads a prolific cast, giving the Joan Sutherland Theatre one of its headline musicals for the tail end of 2024.
Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7111, August 28-November 1, sydneyoperahouse.com
SUNSET BOULEVARD
TITANIQUE
TITANIQUE
Eva Price and legendary local theatre producer Michael Cassel bring New York City’s irreverent Celine Dion-themed musical to the bohemian enclave of The Grand Electric. Surry Hills’ most exciting performing arts space, just a short shuffle from Central Station, will be transformed with a reimagined story of Titanic’s Jack and Rose with Canada’s most famous chanteuse in between. If the sold-out performances across Montreal and London are anything to go by, prepare your pipes for some riotous sing-a-longs as this nostalgic, campy musical plays throughout spring.
The Grand Electric, 199 Cleveland St, Surry Hills, from September 12, strutnfret.com/grand-electric/ titanique-the-musical
OCTOBER
FLAT EARTHERS: THE MUSICAL
Prolific playwright Declan Greene has conjured up what’s described as “West Side Story-meets QAnon queer pop” with Flat Earthers: The Musical. Packed into Darlinghurst’s iconic Griffin Theatre, the tongue-in-cheek production tells the story of Ria who falls in love with Flick over the internet, only to discover that he is a “Flat Earther”. With a very of-the-moment tone, aligned with digital pop culture, it’ll be hard not to fall for this small production’s charms.
Griffin Theatre, 13 Craigend St, Darlinghurst, (02) 9332 1052, October 11-November 9, griffintheatre.com.au
DEAR EVAN HANSEN
With six Tony awards and an abundance of critical acclaim backing it, Dear Evan Hansen will be one of spring’s most popular musicals when it opens at Roslyn Packer Theatre. Sydney Theatre Company and Michael Cassel Group present this story of a socially anxious high school boy who is forced into the spotlight when he inadvertently plays an important role in a local tragedy. The coming-of-age tale promises to bring something raw and inspiring to the historic theatre, perfect for fans of deeply complex, profound stories told through the lens of an explosive Broadway musical.
Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay, (02) 9250 1999, October 12-November 24, roslynpackertheatre.com.au
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s reimagined hit will kick off its Aussie tour in Sydney.
NOVEMBER
SIX THE MUSICAL
Hoping to add another sell-out season to its acclaimed Australian tour, the multi-award-winning SIX the Musical returns to Sydney for a lively victory lap of big pop numbers, hilarious bickering and hyper-colourful costumes. The larger-than-life stage show, following a fictional story of Henry VIII’s wives and their collective existential crisis, will satisfy even the most insatiable appetites for melodrama and mayhem as it plays from late October.
THE MUSICAL
Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King St, Sydney, October 25-December 28, theatreroyalsydney.com
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
When the original incarnation of the flamboyant rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar toured London, with lyrics and music by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, it went on to become the longest-running musical in West End history to that date – and its return to the Harbour City should be in high demand, too. If it’s your first time, you’re in for a surprise as this rock opera reimagines the final weeks of the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket, (02) 9230 5000, November 13-December 1, capitoltheatre.com.au
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
SIX
SPRING HIGHLIGHTS
Food and Drink
» Hot new restaurant openings and outdoor foodie events will showcase the best of Sydney’s hospitality scene in the coming months.
SEPTEMBER
ROSÉ ALL DAY
Sitting on the razor’s edge of the harbour while drinking premium rosé in the shadow of the Sydney Opera House… Few scenes are as quintessential for anyone visiting Sydney, which is why Opera Bar’s annual Rosé All Day festival is always such a popular event. This year, the harbourside bar is doubling down on all things rosé for 10 days, with premium wines, signature rosé cocktails and, of course, frosé. There’ll even be some experimental rosé-inspired snacks for the ultimate pairing.
Opera Bar, Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney, (02) 8587 5900, September 6-15, operabar.com.au
ATTENZIONE FOOD & WINE
A reliable team of hospitality young guns has opened the playful Attenzione. This lively “Italian-ish” restaurant and wine bar, a short walk from Redfern station, has quickly become one of Sydney’s hottest openings with its smart lighting, pitch-perfect ambience and relaxed service. An extensive by-the-glass wine list keeps things exciting and affordable, while unexpected menu highlights include smoky charcoal shaved calamari boxed in by walls of napa cabbage, and rich grilled beef tongue with jicama and salted chilli.
Attenzione Food & Wine, 180 Redfern St, Redfern, instagram.com/attenzione_syd
SYDNEY STREETS ON MACLEAY STREET
ROSE ALL DAY
SYDNEY STREETS ON MACLEAY STREET
The pedestrian-only Sydney Streets program has been an overwhelming hit for the past few years, slinking into the spring spirit with Sydney’s best strips closed o to cars for a day-to-night block party. While numerous Sydney Streets events will be threaded throughout the warmer seasons, the first cab o the rank is Potts Point with the straight shot of Macleay Street, flanked by the street’s best restaurants as they go al fresco for the day. Don’t miss the schedule of live music and performers from 11am to 10pm.
Macleay St, Potts Point, September 28
OCTOBER
OKTOBERFEST IN THE GARDENS
You may not be in Munich, or even South Australia’s German town of Hahndorf, but what’s happening at The Domain can be just as exciting. Oktoberfest in the Gardens takes over the parklands with an expansive one-day festival celebrating all things Bavarian – and yes, that means giant pretzels, crunchy schnitzels and a big range of authentic German beers, wines and ciders. The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney, October 26, oktoberfestinthegardens.com.au
LOVE FOOD FAIR
Love Food Fair is an ode to clean-eating, plant-based diets and sustainably sourced food. Taking place over two days in Martin Place, the free open-air festival will pull together some of Sydney’s finest culinary minds to promote personal health, animal welfare and environmental conservation. With live entertainment staged throughout,
it’s a great way to eat around Sydney while also building a new perspective on how we look at food. Martin Place, Sydney, October 29-30, lovefoodfair.org.au
SONG BIRD
Neil Perry continues his glossy Double Bay takeover with Song Bird, a “modern Asian” eatery driven by the celebrity chef’s commitment to top-shelf produce. The three-floor venue is an elevated take on a classic Cantonese diner, refining favourites such as an extensive menu of dumplings, ginger and shallot steamed fish, and lobster fished straight from the tank. Over 100 items make up the menu, so repeat visits are a must.
Song Bird, 24 Bay St, Double Bay, (02) 9068 8888, themargaretfamily.com
NOVEMBER
SAINT PETER
Josh Niland’s world-famous seafood temple has reopened in Paddington’s revitalised Grand National Hotel. What was once one of the city’s hardest reservations to score has become much more approachable, with a healthy mix of restaurant and bar seating all tied together by Niland’s irrepressible creativity. Grab a Murray cod fat-washed Martini and have faith in the daily set menu – it’ll change the way you think about sustainably caught seafood. Saint Peter, 161 Underwood St, Paddington, (02) 9167 3703, saintpeter.com.au
MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEONS
Melbourne Cup may be “the race that stops the nation”, but there’s no pause for Australia’s busiest kitchens. Restaurants around Sydney always put their best foot forward to try and catch the longlunchers, so make the most of it and sit down to some a ordable set menus in some of the city’s finest. The best spots to eat and watch the race are usually pubs and hotels, so check out Bungalow 8, Sir Stamford or Morrison’s Oyster Bar & Grill. Various locations, November 5
SAINT PETER
MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEONS
Music, Comedy, Dance, Sport
» Sydney’s boundless energy flows through spring and its healthy mix of indoor and outdoor events.
SEPTEMBER
TWOFOLD
An elegant dance double-bill is coming to Roslyn Packer Theatre for a limited run, featuring the return of Rafael Bonachela’s highly praised Impermanence hand in hand with a new work by Melanie Lane called Love Lock. Taken as one, the two performances will tease out a sense of choreographic dynamism, first exploring beauty and devastation and then leaning on love by celebrating dance’s ability to move, warm and empower. Grammywinning musician Bryce Dessner has handled the
score for Impermanence, which will be brought to life by a full string quartet during the show.
Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay, (02) 9250 1999, September 18-28, roslynpackertheatre.com.au
WALLABIES VS ALL BLACKS
There’s very little Aussies love more than their rugby. Even the most uneventful game is worth going to just for the volcanic blend of friendly (and, at times, fierce) rivalry and stadium-sized glory. So imagine what it’ll be like when the Wallabies take on the All Blacks for the prestigious Bledisloe Cup? Will the Wallabies be able to reclaim the trophy from our friends across the ditch, especially now that former All Blacks coach Joe Schmidt is at the helm? The drama alone makes this one of the anticipated match-ups of the year.
Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, (02) 8005 5555, September 21, wallabies.rugby/tickets
OCTOBER
THE WEEKND
One of the most bankable pop stars of our time, The Weeknd, will be heading to Sydney for two shows after he was forced to reschedule dates from last year. Playing our city’s biggest venue, Accor Stadium, the “In Your Eyes” singer takes his blockbuster After Hours til Dawn tour and packs it into the open-air venue with the promise of giving
TWOFOLD
WALLABIES VS ALL BLACKS
fans full performances of all his greatest hits. Accor Stadium, Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, (02) 8005 5555, October 5-6, livenation.com.au
EMPIRE OF THE SUN
A heady dose of pop psychedelia comes courtesy of Nick Littlemore and Luke Steele, collectively one of Australia’s most eccentric acts. They set the world on fire with 2008’s cerebral “Walking on a Dream” and have been highly regarded since. In October, the boundary-breaking duo will take over Hordern Pavilion with a characteristically wild and colourful showcase for new album Ask That God. Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park, (02) 9921 5333, October 24, thehodern.com.au
NOVEMBER
TREVOR NOAH
After building a reputation for his incendiary social commentary on The Daily Show, South African comedian and multi-hyphenate Trevor Noah has fast become one of the world’s most interesting stand-up comedians. The Emmy Award-winner will bring his O The Record tour to Qudos Bank Arena
in late November, following rave reviews, praising the man’s skill as he displays a more mature yet uncompromisingly funny approach to comedy. Qudos Bank Arena, Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, (02) 8765 4321, November 20, qudosbankarena.com.au
POLO IN THE CITY
Did you know the largest national polo series in the world takes place right here in Sydney? Each year Centennial Park hosts a nostalgic homage to the age-old activity, which has been long associated with high society and is one of the few horseback sports still played today. The elegant “Game of Kings” will take place in a picturesque section of the park, promising a full day of spring fashion, entertainment and food as spectators crowd the VIP marquee and pop-up Polo Lounge.
Centennial Park, Moore Park, November 9, polointhecity.com
EMPIRE OF THE SUN
POLO IN THE CITY
TREVOR NOAH
SPRING HIGHLIGHTS
Art
» Spring in Sydney is a season of world-class exhibitions. Here are the most exciting art experiences from September to November.
SEPTEMBER
ALPHONSE MUCHA: SPIRIT OF ART NOUVEAU
A major winter blockbuster exhibition on the life and work of one of art’s great stylistic innovators, Czech-born Alphonse Mucha (1860–1939). His theatre posters of celebrity French actress Sarah Bernhardt propelled Mucha to sudden fame and were ripped from walls by artists and collectors as soon as they were pasted up. The exhibition brings together a range of works from the artist’s five-decade career, including posters, illustrations, jewellery, interior decoration, photographs and an immersive digital experience of his late great painting cycle, the Slav Epic (1912-1926).
Art Gallery NSW, Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, until September 22, artgallery.nsw.gov.au
NOTES ON RECIPROCITY
Stanley Street Gallery, an exhibition space in bustling Darlinghurst, hosts Notes on Reciprocity throughout September and invites visitors to understand the deep connections between artists and their materials. The exhibition, which includes works of masterfully glazed ceramics and blown glass, explores the idea that creativity isn’t just cognitive – it emerges from the interaction between the artist and the mediums and materials they work with.
Stanley Street Gallery, August 24-September 22, 1/52-54 Stanley St, Darlinghurst, stanleystreetgallery.com.au
OCTOBER
ART AND NATURE IN PERFECT HARMONY
Sydney’s favourite outdoor exhibition, Sculpture by the Sea, returns to the Bondi to Tamarama Beach coastal walk between October 18 and November 4. The world’s largest free-to-the-public sculpture exhibition will once again transform the spectacular stretch into a 2km long sculpture park, featuring more than 100 sculptures. Sculpture by the Sea is
SCULPTURE BY THE SEA
one of Sydney’s most popular events, attracting around 500,000 visitors every year. Don’t forget your camera – this is Instagram gold.
Sculpture by the Sea, October 18-November 4, Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, sculpturebythesea.com
THE POWER OF ABSTRACTION
For those with an eye for the subtle and the abstract, the Dobell Australian Drawing Biennial offers a deep dive into the art of drawing. The 2024 edition, titled Infinite, brings together the works of 10 Australian artists who push the boundaries of what drawing can be. From traditional graphite on paper to experimental pieces that use light and technology, this exhibition explores the many possibilities of the medium.
Art Gallery NSW, Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, September 14-January 12, artgallery.nsw.gov.au
NOVEMBER
A SURREALIST RETROSPECTIVE OF MAGRITTE
Wrap up your spring art trail in Sydney with a surrealist twist at the René Magritte retrospective, featuring paintings that are some of the most recognisable images of surrealism. Renowned for his deadpan, realist style, the Belgian artist depicted ordinary objects and everyday settings, revealing their subversive humour. Magritte is an in-depth retrospective featuring more than 100 works, most of which have never before been seen in Australia. From the artist’s first avant-garde
explorations and commercial works in the 1920s, to his groundbreaking contributions, to surrealism and the iconic paintings of his final years.
Art Gallery NSW, Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, October 26-February 9, artgallery.nsw.gov.au
JULIE
MEHRETU: MONUMENTAL ART FOR THE MODERN WORLD
November sees the arrival of an exclusive exhibition by New York-based artist Julie Mehretu. Renowned for her monumental, abstract paintings that blend architecture, history and politics, Mehretu’s work is awe-inspiring. This exhibition will be the first dedicated to Mehretu in Australia, offering visitors a chance to explore her recent and early works in-depth. From themes of global capitalism and revolution to climate change and migration, Mehretu’s art is both thought-provoking and visually stunning.
Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks, November 29 until April 2025, mac.com.au
JULIE MEHRETU
MAGRITTE RETROSPECTIVE
SYDNEY TOP 15
This spectacular city is the capital of the state of New South Wales and the gateway for most visitors. Set around a huge natural harbour and fringed by more than 100 sandy beaches, lush national parks and rolling mountains, it’s easily one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It has an incredibly diverse food scene, lots of things to do and a glorious, sunny climate. In summer, the city comes alive as people flock to the water, leafy parks and buzzing outdoor cafes and bars. There’s a packed calendar of events, fun for the family and plenty of free entertainment on o er.
SYDNEY HARBOUR
Best of Sydney
» Whether it’s your first time in Sydney or you’re a regular visitor who’s come back for more, here are 15 things everyone should know about the Harbour City.
1. IT’S REALLY BIG
Geographically speaking, Sydney is huge. The city covers about 4000 square kilometres, making it equal in size to London and almost double the size of New York City. But at the same time, the population is around half that of the other cities. So, while some inner-city and coastal areas are densely populated, there are still lots of quiet pockets to be found.
2. IT’S REALLY DIVERSE
About 40 per cent of Sydney’s population was born overseas and almost two-thirds have at least one parent born outside of Australia. That makes the city a cultural melting pot with strong influences from China, Southeast Asia, India, the UK and more.
3. THE HARBOUR IS
SPECTACULAR
Sydney’s most famous landmark is one of a kind. The largest and deepest natural harbour in the world, it’s Australia’s busiest waterway with thousands of vessels of every size on the water every day. Flanked by the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, it will take your breath away every time.
4. THERE ARE LOTS OF PLACES TO SWIM
On a hot summer’s day, there’s nothing better than a swim in the ocean. Sydney has more than 100 beaches lining the coast and harbour, ranging from the famous waves at Bondi to hidden coves that only the locals know. If you’re not a confident swimmer, many of the best beaches also have calm ocean pools carved directly into the rock.
5. AND LOTS OF GREEN SPACE
Sydney ranks as the fourth greenest city in the world thanks
to its abundance of public parks and gardens. From the lush harbourside lawns of the Royal Botanic Garden to the 150-yearold fig trees in Centennial Park, there are endless options for walks, picnics and some leafy respite from the buzz of the city.
6. PEOPLE LIVE LIFE OUTSIDE
All that gorgeous outdoor space and a fantastic climate mean Sydneysiders tend to spend a lot of time outside. Winters are short (and relatively mild) and the sun shines for almost nine months a year. You’ll regularly see people walking, running, relaxing in parks, sipping drinks in outdoor bars, shopping at markets and getting active on the water.
7. IT’S EASY TO FIND YOUR TRIBE
Sydney calls itself a city of villages. Start to explore this sprawling metropolis and you’ll quickly discover that it’s actually a series of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own unique style. Go vintage shopping in Newtown, find the best dumplings in Haymarket, get arty in Walsh Bay and stay out late in Kings Cross.
8. ITS HISTORY DATES BACK 60,000 YEARS
The Indigenous Gadigal people of the Eora Nation have called the Sydney area home for more than 60,000 years, making them part of the oldest living culture on Earth. Woven throughout the modern city you can find links to this ancient past, from the native bush-tucker plants growing in the Royal Botanic Garden to the mythical figures carved into the rock in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Join a guided
tour to hear Dreamtime stories and learn about the ongoing connection to Country.
9. IT WAS AUSTRALIA’S FIRST EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT
Founded as a British colony in 1788, Sydney is the oldest European city in Australia. In fact, if you dock at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay, you’ll walk right out into the oldest part of the city, The Rocks, which was the very first colonial settlement. Admire the grand 19th-century government buildings along Macquarie Street, visit 230-year-old homesteads in Parramatta and learn about the city’s dark convict past on Cockatoo Island.
10. DINING IS WORLD-CLASS
Australia is renowned for its exceptional fresh produce and innovative dining culture, and Sydney is the foodie capital of the country. There’s everything from gourmet fine-dining (look out for restaurants with a three-hat rating) to seafood by the water and laid-back pub grub. You’ll also see Sydney’s multicultural influences on the menu everywhere you go, with Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian and Italian food to be found.
11. SO IS THE DRINKING
There are about 30 craft beer breweries in the Greater Sydney area, brewing up delicious lagers, ales and stouts. There are more than a dozen in just a few blocks in the Inner West, so you can easily visit a few on a walking tour. If you want to sample spirits, at least 10 boutique distilleries produce small-batch gin, rum, vodka and whisky, often using native botanicals.
12. SPORT IS A BIG DEAL
Australians love their sport and Sydney is home to professional teams from every code. There are four kinds of football (rugby league, rugby union, Australian rules and soccer) plus cricket, netball, basketball, hockey and more. You can join the locals to cheer on their team at a match or in a pub and get caught up in the infectious atmosphere.
13. YOU CAN EXPLORE ON FOOT OR ON TWO WHEELS
Sydney is a great city for walking and cycling. Around the harbour and through the CBD it is compact and flat, or you can follow some of the famous coastal paths. Join one of the many free walking tours that depart regularly from The Rocks or Town Hall, guided by passionate locals. If you like to find your own way, download the free Sydney Culture Walks app or the Sydney Rides Guide from the City of Sydney website.
14.
COFFEE IS SERIOUS BUSINESS
Coffee is practically a religion in Sydney and you’re never far away from a great cup. The city’s signature style is the flat white, which was invented here in the 1980s, and consists of a shot of espresso topped with steamed milk and no foam. There are excellent cafes to be found in every suburb and many even roast their own beans on-site to ensure the perfect blend.
15.
HELP IS ALWAYS AT HAND
Aside from all the excellent information in this guide, there are plenty of other ways to find help when you’re travelling in Sydney. Around Circular Quay and in The Rocks, look out for the volunteer Sydney Ambassadors wearing their signature red shirts and white hats. You can find Visitor Information Centres at Customs House in Circular Quay (open 9am-5pm daily) and in Manly at the wharf.
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 ones 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.
Sydney Harbour & The City
» 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
PHOTO:
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
HOW TO GET THERE
Catch the 333 bus from Circular Quay to Bondi Beach.
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
Barangaroo & Darling Harbour
» 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, a huge redevelopment began in 2012 and was completed in 2023. Barangaroo occupies the northeastern edge of the bay with the landmark 75-floor Crown Tower (the tallest skyscraper in Sydney) in the middle. 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, Darling Harbour also began life as a working port before it was transformed
into an entertainment and dining precinct for the Australian Bicentennial in 1988. It’s still one of the city’s best places for fun, with an aquarium and zoo, museums, shopping and endless places to eat and drink. There’s always something happening in Darling Harbour, from major festivals to nightly fireworks and kids’ yoga in the park.
HOW TO GET THERE
Catch the train to Wynyard, where it’s just a short walk through an underground tunnel to Barangaroo. You can also catch a ferry from Circular Quay. For Darling Harbour, the closest train station is Town Hall. The light rail runs from Central Station with a number of stops in Darling Harbour and the metro runs to Barangaroo.
DARLING HARBOUR
BARANGAROO
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO
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 off 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. thestreetsofbarangaroo.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
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. Anason. Modern Turkish cuisine in an Instagram-worthy setting on the waterfront. anason.com.au
4. Nick’s Seafood Restaurant. Fresh Australian seafood including fish, lobster, oysters, prawns and crab. nicksgroup.com.au
5. Ume Burger. This tiny stall uses top-shelf local produce to craft beautiful Japaneseinspired burgers. umeburger.com
6. a’Mare. Showstopping Italian food with tableside cooking in an old-school setting. crownsydney.com.au
CHINESE GARDEN OF FRIENDSHIP
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 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 Beer Co. 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. Chez Blue. This charming and relaxed neighbourhood French bistrot, from former Bistro Moncur head chef Mark Williamson, delivers plenty of beloved French classics alongside a few ri s. chezblue.com.au
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. Take a stroll all along Darling Street from Balmain East to Rozelle and you’ll discover countless treasures along the way.
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.
ART GALLERY ON DARLING
THE DRY DOCK
North Sydney
» Cross over the harbour and get a different perspective on the city from the waterfront neighbourhood of North Sydney.
As you cruise into Sydney Harbour, look out to starboard and you’ll see the eclectic foreshore of North Sydney. There are rows of apartment buildings lining the harbour, expansive green parks, ferry wharves, and the huge clown face of Luna Park smiling out across the water. Built right around the northern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, North Sydney is quieter than its southern counterpart but there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
In the charming suburb of Kirribilli, on the eastern side of the bridge, you’ll find some of the city’s most spectacular homes – including Kirribilli House, the Sydney residence of the Prime Minister. Wander the beautiful tree-lined streets and dream about what you could do with a lottery win. Further along the coastline, there are a series of secluded bays with calm beaches for swimming and walking trails offering stunning views.
TOP 5
THINGS TO DO
1. Talk to the animals at Taronga Zoo. Australia’s largest zoo – home to more than 4000 animals – is perched right on the edge of the harbour, giving the giraffes the best view in town. taronga.org.au
2. Ride the rollercoasters, try your luck at the sideshow games and take a spin around the classic Coney Island at Luna Park, which has been thrilling Sydneysiders since the 1930s. lunaparksydney.com
3. Escape into leafy seclusion at Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay. Wendy, wife of acclaimed painter Brett Whiteley and an artist herself, gifted the garden to the people of Sydney. wendyssecretgarden.org.au
4. Hunt for vintage fashion, bespoke jewellery, stylish homewares and local designer pieces at the excellent Kirribilli Markets, held on the first and second Saturday and fourth Sunday of every month. kirribillimarkets.com
5. Walk from Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay and discover the most beautiful parts of the North Sydney coast. This gentle four-kilometre bush track also gives gorgeous glimpses of the Opera House across the harbour. sydney.com
LUNA PARK
KIRRIBILLI MARKETS
TOP 6 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
1. Celsius Coffee & Dining. Great coffee, bountiful breakfasts and views for days at this cosy café set over the water at Kirribilli Wharf. instagram.com/celsiuscoffeeco
2. Ripples Chowder Bay. Mediterraneaninspired dining in a striking waterfront heritage building. rippleschowderbay.com.au
3. Kirribilli Hotel. A classic Sydney pub that’s been serving a thirsty community for almost 100 years. kirribillihotel.com.au
4. The Greens North Sydney. Sprawling family-friendly venue where you can eat, drink and play a game of lawn bowls. thegreensnorthsydney.com.au
5. Sails on Lavender Bay. Elegant fine dining with a focus on seafood and French techniques overlooking the harbour. sailslavenderbay.com
6. Loulou Bistro. Heavily French-inspired café and boulangerie that’s all about the best breads, croissants, cake, charcuterie and cheeses. shop.loulou.sydney
HOW TO GET THERE
Catch the ferry from Circular Quay to Milsons Point (for Luna Park), McMahons Point (for Lavender Bay) or Taronga Zoo Wharf. You can also walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge or catch the train to Milsons Point.
KIRRIBILLI
THE GREENS NORTH SYDNEY
PLACES OF INTEREST
Paddington
» One of Sydney’s most elegant areas, where leafy streets are lined with grand homes, private art galleries and expensive boutiques.
Sitting just to the east of the city, the chic suburb of Paddington will give you a taste of how Sydney’s elite like to live. The main thoroughfare, Oxford Street, is always busy, but venture into the narrow streets beyond and you’ll discover cosy cafes, genteel pubs and designer stores specialising in luxury fashion, jewellery, millinery and more. Most of Paddington’s heritage terraces have been beautifully preserved and restored, making them some of the finest residences in the city.
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO
1. Splash some cash at the high-end stores you’ll find on every street. For Australian designers, head to The Intersection. theintersectionpaddington.com.au
2. Visit the famed Paddington Markets where local label Zimmerman got its start. Check out the stalls on a Saturday to discover the next big thing. paddingtonmarkets.com.au
3. Relax in the unique sunken spaces of Paddington Reservoir Gardens, built in the style of a Roman bath over the original 19th-century water reservoir. cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
4. Gallery-hop through Paddington’s collection of world-class exhibition spaces showcasing contemporary works, Aboriginal art, sculpture and more.
5. Explore central Sydney’s largest green space, Centennial Park, with 189 hectares of gardens, wetlands, ponds and trails. centennialparklands.com.au
HOW TO GET THERE
Catch the 333 bus from Circular Quay to Oxford Street in Paddington.
TOP 5 PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
1. Fred’s. Farm-to-table, seasonal and sustainable dining in a restaurant that feels like a country home. merivale.com
2. Chiswick. Modern Australian cuisine in a picturesque, glass-walled dining room surrounded by a kitchen garden. chiswickwoollahra.com.au
3. Saint Peter. A pioneering ‘fin-to-scale’ seafood eatery from innovative young chef Josh Niland. saintpeter.com.au
4. Charlie Parker’s. Impossibly cool basement cocktail bar. merivale.com
5. The London. A quintessential Paddo pub dating back to 1875, with good food, sport on the TV and dogs in the courtyard. hotellondon.com.au
SAINT PETER
PADDINGTON
PADDINGTON RESERVOIR GARDENS PHOTOS:
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, off 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. Manly Wharf Bar. A very popular pub set right on the wharf next to the ferry terminal with multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. wharfbar.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 coffee 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
MANLY WHARF BAR
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, off 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. Manly Wharf Bar. A very popular pub set right on the wharf next to the ferry terminal with multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. wharfbar.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 coffee 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
MANLY WHARF BAR
A
world
Scenic World: Just 90 mins from Sydney!
For tickets and info scan the QR code!
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 o er.
BRIDGECLIMB SYDNEY
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
More than four million people have climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge since 1990.
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. Adjacent to the garden is The Domain, a grand outdoor event space that frequently 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, popular with visitors and local alike. Over 20 cruises depart daily from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, plus whale-watching trips. Captain Cook Cruises, (02) 9206 1111, captaincook.com.au
BRIDGECLIMB SYDNEY
OPERA BAR
PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW
Unique villages
» There’s more to inner Sydney than meets the eye. Tucked away within the city are a number of unique neighbourhoods, each with their own distinctive personality. Spend some time exploring these interesting areas and you’ll soon discover what makes them special.
BARANGAROO
Sydney Dance Company and Bangarra Dance Company, Australia’s acclaimed Indigenous dance troupe. Be sure to stop for a drink at The Theatre Bar At The End Of The Wharf for its spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge. walshbay.com.au
DARLING QUARTER & DARLING SQUARE
Tucked away behind Darling Harbour, Darling Quarter and Darling Square are a buzzy series of laneways and plazas home to some of the city’s best eats. Cafes and restaurants spill out onto the wide footpaths, serving up cuisine from all over the world with a particular focus on Asia. There’s also an excellent playground and water play area, and regular festivals or live music.
darlingquarter.com; darlingsq.com
CHINATOWN
Dating back to the 1920s, Sydney’s Chinatown has long been the heart of the city’s Asian community. Centred around the pedestrian Dixon Street, it’s packed with restaurants and shops. Yum cha (a Cantonese brunch of dumplings and tea) is a tradition in Sydney and there are lots of delicious options here. Duck into the labyrinth of Paddy’s Market, a bustling shopping hub where you can buy everything from fresh food to fashion.
WOOLLOOMOOLOO
Another of the city’s revitalised wharf precincts, Woolloomooloo is to the east of the Royal Botanic Garden. There’s still a working naval base here and you’ll often see huge ships docked just o shore. Enjoy a long lunch at one of the stylish restaurants that line the wharf or stock up on picnic supplies from bakery Flour & Stone.
A glittering strip running along the western edge of Darling Harbour, Barangaroo is the city’s newest suburb. It’s a place where work and play come together, with top financial institutions occupying the skyscrapers towering above chic bars and restaurants. At the headland is the leafy Barangaroo Reserve where a guide from Aboriginal Cultural Tours will explain the area’s rich Indigenous history and show you plants that have been used as food and medicine for thousands of years. barangaroo.com
WALSH BAY
This historic neighbourhood is based around wharves dating back to the mid-1800s. Today, these beautifully refurbished piers are a hub of arts and culture. You’ll find the Sydney Theatre Company,
BARANGAROO
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BALMAIN ROZELLE
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Comedy
The most beautiful walks
» Sydney is spectacular on foot. From winding trails around the harbour to grand clifftop paths and inner-city culture crawls, it’s 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. sydneyculturewalksapp.com
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 and fun outdoor adventures to animal encounters and interactive museums, the Harbour City is packed with good old-fashioned 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 the world-famous 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 walk-through 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 in a unique immersive habitat.
LUNA PARK
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 kayak under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or learn to catch a wave at Bondi Beach.
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. You can learn what life was like for convicts in the early years of the Australian colony at Hyde Park Barracks, which has a specially designed Kids’ Trail.
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
FOOD & DRINK
There’s something special about Sydney’s food and drink scene. In recent years, a new vanguard of young chefs have 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 open-air 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.
ROYAL PALACE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
FOOD & DRINK
Modern icons
» You can eat your way around the world through multicultural Sydney’s diverse and delicious restaurant scene.
URSULA’S
It was a coup for Sydney when Chef Phil Wood decided to return after a stint in Victoria, where his two restaurants earned three hats and many accolades. His latest venture is Ursula’s, which has already become 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.
Ursula’s, 92 Hargrave St, Paddington, 0499 525 235, ursulas.com.au
BABA’S PLACE
Tucked away in the industrial backstreets of the Inner West, Baba’s Place would be an easy one to overlook. But the friendly neighbourhood diner’s status as the real deal has been cemented since opening, with bookings a hot commodity since day one. The menu explores suburban cuisine, with a hat tip to the recipes of immigrant grandmothers. Don’t trust us? Then heed Nigella Lawson, who said of a recent visit: “Everything that comes out of this talented kitchen is a beguiling combination of the hearty and the exquisite. I ate lots, photographed little and cannot wait to be back!”
Baba’s Place, 20 Sloane St, Marrickville, 0423 587 481, babasplace.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 and capers, and whole spatchcock with native spice and leeks. Simplicity counts when you’ve got flawless technique and beautiful produce. Ester, 46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale, (02) 8068 8279, ester-restaurant.com.au
BABA’S PLACE
URSULA’S
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. Smart, wellrounded service and a relaxed dining room peel you away from Newtown’s chaotic energy, setting you up for a sophisticated fine dining experience without the stuffiness. The menu changes far too often for anyone to get attached to a certain dish, but you could expect exciting plates like leeks with spanner crab, brown butter and hazelnuts, and generous potato dumplings stuffed with rich XO trout. Cafe Paci, 131 King St, Newtown, 0402 239 2189, cafepaci.com.au
SPICE TEMPLE
With its fresh take on traditional Chinese cuisine, Spice Temple is a Sydney institution. The restaurant is known for its banquet-style menu, focused on fare from China’s lesser-known regions. This long-established eatery dishes up a variety of modern Asian favourites using local and seasonal ingredients – noodles, dumplings, seafood and stir- fries. Drop in for a quick lunch, when a fragrant bowl of noodles and a glass of beer or wine will only set you back $25.
Spice Temple, 10 Bligh St, Sydney, (02) 8099 7088, spicetemple.com.au
SPICE TEMPLE
CLAM BAR
Clam Bar is the latest venue from the city’s hottest hospitality trio: Dan Pepperell, Mikey Clift and Andy Tyson, the masterminds behind venues such as Pellegrino 2000 and Bistrot 916. The new venue is meant to recall Manhattan’s famous steakhouses; it specialises in hefty slabs of meat (such as the Barnsley chop with anchovy butter and creamed spinach) and stiff drinks (with a particularly excellent gin martini). Of course, you can’t call yourself Clam Bar and leave out the namesake. The spaghetti and clams dish is a very respectable nod to a classic, tossed with chilli, white wine and a generous helping of garlic.
Clam Bar, 44 Bridge St, Sydney, (02) 9016 1590, clambarsydney.com
Spice Temple showcases rare dishes from Chinese provinces such as Jiangxi and Xinjiang.
CAFE PACI
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.
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.
Flour and Stone, 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, though what sets these products apart is the use of heirloom Australian wheat varieties (for example, the buckwheat pain au chocolate is one of the best we’ve ever had). There is also ample seating beneath sky-blue umbrellas and a hearty breakfast menu (eggs, sandwiches, things on toast) – enough to keep you occupied for a long, lazy morning.
A.P House, Lvl 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 mortadella; 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.
Good Ways Deli, 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.
Piña, 4/29 Orwell St, Potts Point, (02) 7251 8025, order.pinapottspoint.com.au
TWO CHAPS
It’s an unfortunate thing to have to say, but just because an eatery is vegetarian, doesn’t mean it’s hostile to meat-eaters. This is very much true of Two Chaps in Marrickville, where everything is
FLOUR AND STONE
made from scratch each morning, and where the menu is ever-changing based on the best produce of the season. Alongside the café menu (think sourdough crumpets with seasonal toppings, pasture-raised eggs on homemade bread and daily salads) is a regular rotation of hot sandwiches, freshly made pizzas and homey baked goods. The café is also open Friday and Saturday nights for dinner, when a pasta-focused set menu takes over. Two Chaps, 122 Chapel St, Marrickville, (02) 9572 8858, twochaps.com.au
KURUMAC
In a refreshing deviation from standard Sydney breakfast fare, Marrickville’s Kurumac specialises in breakfast dishes that recall those served in family-run joints throughout Japan. The congee is a soul-warming go-to, the spicy cod roe melt is a local icon, and the onigiri are always a reliable choice. Kurumac has also teamed up with favoured local gelateria Mapo for a special hojicha gelato milkshake. Yes!
Kurumac, 107 Addison Rd, Marrickville, (02) 8593 9449, kurumac.com
TWO CHAPS
A.P HOUSE
Two Chaps is the birthplace of honey-soaked Sticky Chai, Sydney’s favourite spiced tea.
Special occasion FOOD & DRINK
» Every day in Sydney is special, but landmark Sydney eateries are the perfect places to celebrate the landmark days in your life.
ICEBERGS DINING ROOM & BAR
There are a few reasons why Icebergs is celebrity chef Nigella Lawson’s “favourite restaurant in the whole world”. Firstly, the cliffside view over Bondi Beach is second to none; you feel like you are sitting atop the ocean. Secondly, the Italian menu is expertly executed with seasonal Aussie produce. Finally, the service doesn’t miss a step.
Icebergs, 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach, (02) 9365 9000, idrb.com
ROCKPOOL BAR & GRILL
Housed within the Art Deco City Mutual Building, built around 1936, Rockpool Bar & Grill is one of Sydney’s finest dining rooms. This legendary
restaurant has been plating perfectly cooked dry-aged steak and pouring fine wine since 2009. Founded by Australian celebrity chef Neil Perry, Rockpool has been named the eighth-best steak restaurant in the world. If you don’t have time for a full meal, drop in for RP Hour from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays for a selection of snacks, drinks and signature cocktails.
Rockpool Bar & Grill, 66 Hunter St, Sydney, (02) 8099 7077, rockpoolbarandgrill.com.au
WOODCUT
A bold dining experience of contrasts, Woodcut conjures up the nostalgia of slow-cooked meals over open fires, but in an ultra-modern setting. Awardwinning chef Ross Lusted and his restaurateur wife Sunny pay homage to classic methods of fire, smoke, ice and steam. Imagine a southern rock lobster, charred in a wood-fired oven, finished with kombu butter.
Woodcut, Crown Sydney, Level 1/1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, (02) 8871 7171, crownsydney.com.au/ restaurants/woodcut
BENNELONG
Dining inside the Sydney Opera House is a pinchyourself moment. The dramatic peaked ceilings remind you that you’re within the famous sails, and the high-reaching triangular glass walls invite the iconic harbour views inside. Renowned Australian chef Peter Gilmore has crafted a quintessentially modern Australian menu, showcasing some of the country’s best produce.
Bennelong, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9240 8000, bennelong.com.au
PHOTOS: CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES, JACKSONS ON GE0RGE
ICEBERGS DINING ROOM & BAR
WOODCUT
NIGHTLIFE
Aworld-class city’s vibrancy lives or dies on its nightlife. And Sydney is on the cusp of its most important transformation in history. In recent years, a concerted e ort to revive Sydney’s nightlife has started to bloom, rallying the city’s many bars, pubs and nightclubs to help pull the city into its next chapter – one that’s packed 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 Inner West bars. It’s time to make Sydney fun again.
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY IN SYDNEY
Out for a dance
» Sydney’s nightlife scene is back and better than ever, with action-packed nightclubs to suit every taste.
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. Ivy Pool Club, Lvl 4 330 George St, Sydney, (02) 9114 7307, merivale.com
THE ARGYLE
If these heritage-listed walls could talk, they’d tell stories of how Sydney’s nightlife has evolved for more than a century. Set in a dramatic
19th-century sandstone building, The Argyle is a compelling and unique destination framed by the cobblestoned streets of The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest colonial neighbourhood. The nightclub’s most prized asset is its large open-air courtyard, perfect for a boogie day or night – although the second-floor nightclub fits the bill for anyone looking to sink into a sea of pulsating beats, boosted by smoke machines and lasers.
The Argyle, 18 Argyle St, The Rocks, theargylerocks.com
UNIVERSAL
Sydney lost a piece of its soul when the notorious Midnight Shift shuttered in 2017, denting the city’s world-renowned LGBTQIA+ nightlife scene. A saving grace came just a year later, quickly transforming the space into Universal Sydney, where glitter, drag shows and disco balls once again took pride of place. Defined by its pink-and-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 ARGYLE
the performers, artists, DJs and staff who have made this venue what it is. Bring your stamina if you’re heading in on a Saturday night – the club doesn’t close until 7am.
Universal, 85-91 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, (02) 8080 7065, universal.sydney
CAROUSEL
Carousel is a throwback to the European discotheques of the 1970s, smartly dressed and with a sharp sense for world-building. A team of Sydney’s most prolific party promoters, including S.A.S.H. and Sly Fox Hotel, came together to open this unique Darlinghurst club in 2023, kicking any concerns about Sydney’s dwindling nightlife to the curb. No less than 33 speakers dance around the retro-futuristic venue, thumping beats from a state-of-the-art FunktionOne system with a one-of-a-kind lighting rig imported specially from Amsterdam. Mid-week performances keep the vibe nice and relaxed, while weekends turn up the intensity with nonstop raves until 5am.
Carousel, 169 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, carousel.net.au
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
Carousel turns up the intensity on weekends with nonstop raves until 5am.
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.
Chinese Laundry, 1 Slip St, Sydney, merivale.com
HOME THE VENUE
Sydney’s most bankable superclub has been overlooking Cockle Bay Wharf since 1998. Home the Venue is a masterclass in longevity, still thriving with three floors of industry-leading acoustics and programming on par with some of the world’s best nightclubs. A dynamic schedule of parties nod to a great range of tunes, attracting some of the world’s top DJs. Considering its location on the horseshoe bend of Darling Harbour, it is a great place to party backed by arresting views of the area.
Home the Venue, 101/1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney, homesydney.com
IVY POOL CLUB
CAROUSEL
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. The Lansdowne, 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. Golden Sheaf, 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.
Marlborough Hotel, 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.
The Abercrombie, 100 Broadway, Chippendale, (02) 8823 0555, abercrombie.sydney
THE MARLY
GOLDEN SHEAF
Boogie bars
» Sydney’s best bars are showcases for world-class mixology – and they turn into a party each and every night.
MARBLE BAR
A sense of history hits you as soon as you enter Marble Bar. Burrowed beneath Hilton Sydney, the speakeasy sits on more than 130 years of tradition, framed by 35 varieties of marble splashed between dual mahogany bars with beautifully preserved mosaic floors and plate-glass mirrors. Few establishments in the world are as beautiful, its Gatsby-style tastefulness juxtaposed with wild parties leaning towards ’90s R&B and Latin music. Sip on classic cocktails or browse the extensive list of premium Champagnes before partying the night away with Sydney’s classiest crowd.
Marble Bar, Level B1/488 George St, Sydney, (02) 9266 2000
BAR PLANET
Bar Planet is far from one-note, but this Newtown watering hole lives or dies on its signature Martini. Such studied elegance anchors a night of unrestrained partying, framed by a psychedelic theme with a galactic bent thrown in. The tiny space always turns into a late-night party as the evening pushes on, illuminated by glow-in-thedark galaxies and sparkling stars beaming from the terrazzo bar top. Newtown hasn’t been this playful in years.
Bar Planet, 16 Enmore Rd, Newtown, barplanet.com.au
GOROS
The key to a good night at Goros is to hit the innercity bar’s best beats. Crunch on some pitch-perfect karaage before you hit those free karaoke booths, slump over those neon-lit arcade machines, and then join the rest of Sydney as the dancefloor springs to life. This Surry Hills bar is always a good time, boldly bringing together several elements so you can choose your own adventure.
Goros, 84/86 Mary St, Surry Hills, (02) 9212 0214, goros.com.au
CLUB 77
Club 77 is that rare example of a debaucherous nightclub that’s been refined for the modern age, yet still maintains that air of sweaty late-night revelry.
In the early evening, the notorious subterranean bar’s lively lounge straddles a fine line between dive and disco. Things are kept relatively calm and casual until the later hours when top-billing DJs come through and shake some life into the dancefloor, which on weekends thumps with techno until 5am. Club 77, 77 William St, Darlinghurst, club77.com.au
GOROS
MARBLE BAR
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. PS40, 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.
Maybe Sammy, 115 Harrington St, The Rocks, (02) 9241 4970, maybesammy.com
OLD MATE’S PLACE
Crawl to the top of a narrow, unmarked building on Clarence St and pour into the creaky Old Mate’s Place. Don’t mistake the bar’s casual cool for a dive, this prolific team of bartenders are shaking some of Sydney’s most refined, deliciously playful cocktails. The Baker’s Dozen, for example, distils a nutty almond croissant into liquid perfection with fat-washed whisky, roasted walnuts and demerara sugar topped with a tiny edible pastry. It’s an unexpected delight, just like the bar’s breezy rooftop terrace and witty service.
Old Mate’s Place, level 4/199 Clarence St, oldmates.sydney
DEAN & NANCY
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.
Dean & Nancy, 2 Hunter St, Sydney, (02) 9182 9500, deanandnancyon22.com.au
MAYBE SAMMY
DEAN & NANCY
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. Mamak, 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.
Indian Home Diner, 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.
Odd Culture, 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).
Ca e Roma, 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.
Jimmy’s Falafel, 330 George St, (02) 9114 7381, merivale.com/venues/jimmys-falafel
CAFFE ROMA
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 nautical history, there’s the Australian Maritime Museum. Love the classics? Stroll the elegant halls of the Art Gallery of NSW and see its new 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.
WHITE RABBIT GALLERY
PHOTO: DESTINATION
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 houses almost 3000 pieces from 750 artists.
ARTSPACE
WHITE RABBIT GALLERY
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.
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
The distinctive sails of Sydney Opera House are instantly recognisable. This architectural masterpiece hosts contemporary and classic dance performances, opera productions, symphonies and avant-garde theatre. Stroll the forecourt and marvel at the structure, or book a guided tour to explore backstage areas and see the world-famous tiled exterior up close.
Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, (02) 9250 7250, sydneyoperahouse.com
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 new 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
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 2211, mhnsw.au/visit-us/the-mint
HYDE PARK BARRACKS
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
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 2211, mhnsw.au/ visit-us/hyde-park-barracks
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, admire the 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
ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Regional
» If you’ve got time up your sleeve, the outskirts of Sydney are home to a beautiful range of regional galleries, many of which boast significant collections in combination with breathtaking natural views.
CAMPBELLTOWN ARTS CENTRE
The western suburbs of Sydney are giving rise to the next generation of arts stars. Campbelltown Arts Centre is a prime example of the talent concentrated in the area, and acts as a safe space for local communities and artists to take risks that wouldn’t fly in more established galleries. Campbelltown Arts Centre, Art Gallery Rd, Campbelltown, (02) 4645 4100, c-a-c.com.au
BLUE MOUNTAINS CULTURAL CENTRE
Not only is Blue Mountains Cultural Centre a leading regional gallery, but its exhibitions boast the additional appeal of a stunning bushland backdrop. In the open and airy gallery spaces, you’ll find major local and touring exhibitions, as well as a dedicated viewing platform that takes in panoramic views of Katoomba and Jamison Valley.
Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, 30 Parke St, Katoomba, (02) 4780 5410, bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au
CASULA POWERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE
Housed inside a converted power station, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is a formidable venue. The award-winning architectural space contains six unique galleries that play host to contemporary and traditional exhibitions, the majority of which are brought to life in collaboration with the diverse range of communities within Western Sydney. The centre also houses a theatre, an on-site restaurant, a performance space, an artists’ residence, a kids’ studio and a ceramics studio.
Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, 1 Powerhouse Rd, Casula, (02) 8711 7123, casulapowerhouse.com
HAZELHURST ARTS CENTRE
CASULA POWERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE
PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW
HAZELHURST ARTS CENTRE
The site of Hazelhurst Arts Centre was originally bequeathed to the local council in the 1990s by owners Ben and Hazel Broadhurst, who instructed that Hazelhurst was to become a place of culture for the whole community. In 2000, the site opened its doors as a public arts facility, and ever since it has been an epicentre for local artists and creatives in Sydney’s south. It is a fantastic space to discover contemporary and significant Australian art across a broad range of media, from painting to ceramics to printmaking to jewellery.
Hazelhurst Arts Centre, 782 Kingsway, Gymea, (02) 8536 5700, hazelhurst.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au
Hazelhurst Arts Centre is a five-minute walk from Gymea Train Station on the T4 line.
CAMPBELLTOWN ARTS CENTRE
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) 8239 2211, 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
Learning experiences
» Learn something new on holidays at these interesting and educational museums, which will appeal to the whole family.
AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
Inside this landmark building is Australia’s very first museum, established in 1827, and celebrating 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, Saturdays and Sundays).
Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney, (02) 9320 6000, 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
SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
This magnificent heritage-listed sandstone museum, circa 1858, is perched atop the highest point of Sydney Cove, o ering incredible stargazing opportunities. Step inside the astronomy dome to see telescopes in action on a familyfriendly tour designed for small groups including children six years and over.
Sydney Observatory, 1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point, (02) 9217 0222, powerhouse.com.au/visit/ sydney-observatory
MARITIME MUSEUM
AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
Sydney’s iconic market that has been a favourite with locals and visitors for over 48 years. Everything from vintage clothing, bespoke art, incredible food, music, handmade goods from amazing artisans, jewellery and so much more
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!
BARANGAROO
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. Queen Victoria Building, 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, Camilla and Marc, and Dion Lee, along with high-end milliners, vintage watches and inventive jewellery. The Strand Arcade, 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.
Pitt St Mall, 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, shop ’til you drop or window gaze at Tommy Hilfiger, Fendi, Bottega Veneta, Chanel and more.
Westfield Sydney, cnr Pitt St Mall & 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: DESTINATION NSW
QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING
Luxury
you to create a customised future heirloom. Australian Opal Cutters, 295-301 Pitt St, Sydney, australianopalcutters.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.
» If you like to splash some serious cash, you’ve come to the right place. Visit the elegant flagship stores of designer brands, choose a piece of exquisite jewellery or even hunt down a luxe-for-less bargain.
CASTLEREAGH STREET, CBD
Luxury lovers should head to Castlereagh Street, near where it intersects King Street in central Sydney, for labels such as Dior, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Hermès and Saint Laurent. For collectors of rare, opulent vintage pieces, visit The Vintage Clothing Shop in nearby St James Arcade.
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. Bondi Junction Westfield, 500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction, (02) 9947 8000, westfield.com.au/bondijunction
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
The Star, 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.
BIRKENHEAD POINT
Discover hundreds of top designer brands at discounted prices at Birkenhead Point outlet shopping mall. Save on Calvin Klein, Armani, Coach, Country Road and more. Get there via a private water taxi from Circular Quay for the 20-minute ride to Birkenhead – it’s a fantastic way to see the harbour, too.
Birkenhead Point, 19 Roseby St, Drummoyne, (02) 9812 8800, birkenheadpoint.com.au
CASTLEREAGH STREET, CBD
BIRKENHEAD POINT
Bondi SHOPPING
» Boutiques in Bondi capture the laid-back, coastal style of this famous beachside suburb. Gould Street, lined with boutiques from high-end Aussie labels, is a good place to start your spree.
PLAYA BY LUCY FOLK
Australian jewellery brand Lucy Folk blends delicacy, playfulness, absurdity and humour in its single keepsake pieces. It could be described as the epitome of the Bondi aesthetic, inspired as it is by travel, design and wellbeing. Collections come and go regularly, but some of the brand’s signature pieces are emblematic of its whimsy – for instance, the Taco Friendship Bracelet, a macramé bracelet adorned with a plated-metal taco charm. The brand also has its own clothing and accessory lines, which are aptly described as “wearable art”.
Playa by Lucy Folk, cnr Hall & Gould St, Bondi Beach, 0484 658 993, lucyfolk.com
JAC + JACK
Modern wardrobe staples are the specialty of Jac + Jack. The Australian slow-fashion brand started in 2004 when its founders had the simple idea to perfect sweaters and t-shirts, with quality at the core of the brand’s values. Each item on the rack
represents their commitment to sourcing premium fabrics and yarns, such as cashmere and Merino wool, for pieces of understated luxury.
Jac + Jack, 3/82-92 Gould St, Bondi Beach, jacandjack.com
SIR THE LABEL
Another example of homegrown sustainable fashion, SIR The Label has made a point of using natural fibres and cultivating a network of makers with ethical work practices. The resulting pieces are proof that sustainability can be sexy. The brand’s collections are capable of taking you from day to night, covering everything from loosely tailored suiting to cocktail dresses to swimwear with modern graphic prints. The flagship store in Bondi is the best place to shop the breadth of SIR’s range.
SIR. The Label, 81a Gould St, Bondi Beach, sirthelabel.com
BONDI WASH
There’s nothing like a scent to recall the memory of a holiday. If you want to take a lingering piece of Bondi home with you, may we recommend Bondi Wash? The brand’s range of natural products for home and body (and babies and pets) are made using Australian botanicals, so they’re not only powerful but also smell delightful.
Bondi Wash, 76 Gould St, Bondi Beach, (02) 9365 5609, bondiwash.com.au
BONDI WASH
Paddington
» Paddington has long been known as an epicentre for Sydney’s well-heeled. Head to Oxford Street for the main thoroughfare, with its alluring boutiques, designer furniture stores and upmarket pubs.
THE INTERSECTION
A precinct within Paddington’s shopping precinct, The Intersection – as the corner of Oxford Street and Glenmore Road is known – is the crème de la crème of an already glamorous area. Within a relatively small footprint, you’ll find a comprehensive who’s who of Australia’s most covetable brands, including Scanlan Theodore, Zimmermann, bassike, Dion Lee, sass & bide, Rachel Gilbert, Manning Cartel and Aēsop. Among the many celebrities who have been known to shop the Intersection are Kim Kardashian, Eva Longoria, Paris Hilton, Kanye West, Miley Cyrus, Hailey Bieber and Kate Hudson. The Intersection, cnr Glenmore Rd & Oxford St, Paddington, theintersectionpaddington.com.au
PARLOUR X
For high-end international brands, you can’t look past Parlour X. This is where Sydneysiders go to pick up the latest from Balenciaga, Céline, Fendi, Chloé, Saint Laurent and Valentino. Of course, brands such as these deserve a suitable setting
in which to be displayed, and Parlour X delivers. The boutique is housed within an incredible piece of heritage architecture: a Gothic Revival church originally built in 1845. As if it wasn’t hard enough to leave already.
Parlour X, 261 Oxford St, Paddington, (02) 9331 0999, parlourx.com
JARDAN
Another architectural shopping experience, Jardan opened its Sydney flagship store in 2017 with the help of local firm IF Architecture, which drew inspiration from Sydney Harbour and the leafy inner streets of Sydney for a colour palette of deep blue, green and autumn yellow. The centrepiece is a chunky pink staircase that takes you between levels of cult furniture. As well as contemporary sofas, chairs and tables crafted from premium native woods, you’ll find more travel-friendly take-homes, such as Italian wool cushions, hand-knotted rugs and decorative objects from local brands and artists. Jardan, 42 Oxford St, Paddington, (02) 9663 4500, jardan.com.au
AMPERSAND CAFÉ & BOOKSTORE
At Ampersand, you’re welcome to stay a while. In fact, unlike at many other retail o erings, lingering is encouraged. This Paddington bookstore is inherently charming, with books haphazardly stacked on the shelves, armchairs to curl up in, and an in-house café where you can grab a co ee or a bite to keep you going.
Ampersand Café & Bookstore, 78 Oxford St, Paddington, (02) 9380 6617, ampersandcafe.com.au
PARLOUR X
Barangaroo
» Barangaroo is a relatively new precinct in Sydney, enviably sited on the cusp of the harbour. The process behind selecting the retailers, restaurants, bars and cafés that inhabit the shopfronts seemed to be to hand pick the best vendors from other areas of the city – the result being a neatly walkable destination where quality is assured.
MODARTE
Homegrown fashion brand Modarte has carved an commanding presence in Barangaroo’s well-curated shopping scene. The unisex made-to-measure brand takes an artisanal approach to tailored clothing with a fine attention to detail. Working with ethical farms in regional Australia, the label sources high-quality materials such as merino and delivers a high standard while keeping prices reasonable. Their knowledgeable advice will help you walk away with a piece to be proud of.
Modarte, Tower One, 25.01A/100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, (02) 8089 0388, perpetuityintl.com.au
TITLE STORE
Title Books’ Surry Hills store was always the place to go in Sydney to find limited-edition books, music and film. It has now brought that same offering to its
second outpost in Barangaroo. Although the store is smaller than the original, it’s still very easy to spend hours browsing. The store makes a point of hiring cultural savants who are well-equipped to unite you with your next favourite novel or record.
Title Barangaroo, 400 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, (02) 9262 4404, titlemusicfilmbooks.com
NINA ARMANDO
Proudly made in Brazil, Nina Armando is known for its exquisitely crafted range of Australian and European-style leather shoes. The store is set up somewhat as a gallery, with walls of stilettos encircling a plush couch and lofty cathedral windows illuminating the collections. Considering the brand’s commitment to elegance, you’ll find more traditional shoe styles here, but there are also plenty of options for the modern and adventurous.
Nina Armando, Shop T2 14/300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, (02) 9223 0322, ninaarmando.com
PASPALEY
Paspaley is one of the last pearling companies in the world that still dives for wild pearl oysters; of its 1200 staff, 600 are employed in pearling alone. As a result, the brand stocks some of the rarest, most beautiful pearls in the world, with uncommon specimens hand-plucked in the Kimberley region in Western Australia. In the Barangaroo retail store, you’ll find collections that honour the simplicity of pearls with pared-back, ultra-modern settings. Paspaley, Shop 2, Crown Sydney, 1 Barangaroo Ave, (02) 8251 8088, paspaley.com
BARANGAROO PRECINCT
Surry Hills
» This vibrant inner-city neighbourhood has evolved from its thoroughly workingclass beginnings to become a thriving hub of fashion, art and food. Crown Street is the main shopping strip, though Bourke Street is well worth a stroll, too.
THE STANDARD STORE
Small international brands with cult followings and distinct styles are the specialty of the Standard Store in Surry Hills. The boutique remains relatively faithful to its curated stable of designers, meaning current collections are reliably in stock. Men and women are both well catered to on the racks, with brands including Sessùn, Humanoid, Henrik Vibskov, Rachel Comey, Stine Goya, Drôle de Monsieur and Engineered Garments. There’s also a nice little selection of cool accessories. The Standard Store, 431 Crown St, Surry Hills, (02) 9310 1544, thestandardstore.com.au
HAY SHOP
Danish design store HAY Shop chose Surry Hills for its first Australian outpost, and it doesn’t do things by halves. The open-plan, warehouse-style shop floor is a wonderland of innovative products made by some of the world’s most talented, least conventional designers. The shopping experience is joyful, browsing between everything from pop-colour furniture and show-offable storage solutions to statement toothbrushes and stationery. HAY Sydney, 255 Crown St, Surry Hills, (02) 9538 0855, hayshop.com.au
MAISON BALZAC
The mischievous spirit of glassware brand Maison Balzac is evident in the form of its first cult breakthrough product: a ceramic matchholder in the shape of a lobster. But the whimsy is underpinned by an exacting attention to detail. Founder Elise Pioch Balzac scoured the world to find a glass-blower that could individually mouthblow her coloured glass designs, settling on an artisan factory in Mongolia. Every design the brand releases falls into Balzac’s 100-year plan – that is, it should be unique while avoiding faddishness. This explains why many of Sydney’s top restaurants now set their tables with the Maison’s products.
Maison Balzac, 545A Bourke St, Surry Hills, 0422 655 370, maisonbalzac.com
CUT STORE
An acronym for Conscious Universal Traders, CUT Store in Surry Hills is dedicated to sourcing the latest clothing, accessories and homewares from premium and sustainable independent brands. The shopping experience feels intimate, with the store’s broad selection of high-quality pieces housed within a beautiful Surry Hills terrace building, inside of which the walls have been painted a lavish olive green overlaid with graphic designs. The clothing, which caters to all sizes, tends towards similarly decadent colour palettes.
CUT Store, 263 Crown St, Surry Hills, cutstore.com.au
A wonderland of glass creations is to be found at Maison Balzac.
MAISON BALZAC
HAY SHOP
SHOPPING
Newtown
» The eclectic suburb of Newtown, as well as neighbouring Enmore, is known for its independent style and colourful street art. This is where to go in search of one-off vintage finds, curious coffee-table books and original fashion.
REUNION STORE
Not your average second-hand store, Reunion exclusively stocks high-quality modern and vintage brands courtesy of the local sartorial set, whose pre-loved goods are assessed for authenticity before they’re allowed to hit the racks. Browsing here comes with a heightened level of excitement – you never know when you’re going to stumble on a vintage Issey Miyake shirt or a pair of Fendi sneakers, available at a significant mark-down. Reunion Store, Shop 2/112 Enmore Rd, Newtown, reunionstore.co
MAPLESTORE
Although Maplestore was built on a foundation of quality denim goods, it’s so much more than that.
The boutique stocks a range of international and local brands, many of which err towards a Japanese streetwear aesthetic, as well as cult labels such as A.P.C. Accessories here are much more than an afterthought. This is where to go to find curated selections of everything from jewellery and incense to nail polish and camping essentials. Maplestore, 244 King St, Newtown, (02) 9517 1633, maplestore.com.au
BETTER READ THAN DEAD
It’s hard to overstate how beloved this local bookstore is. The literary landmark is a haven for book lovers and the community, with its extensive range of books – non-fiction, fiction, children’s books, cookbooks and every genre between –complemented by a calendar of author talks and community events. And with its dedication to supporting local authors, this is a great place to find your next favourite Australian read.
Better Read Than Dead, 265 King St, Newtown, (02) 9557 8700, betterread.com.au
P&V WINE + LIQUOR MERCHANTS
P&V co-founders Mike Bennie and Lou Dowling were almost single-handedly responsible for generating buzz around natural and sustainable wines, as well as small-batch producers, in Sydney. Biodynamic farming is the foundation stone of the boutique liquor store’s philosophy, closely followed by Bennie and Dowling’s rock-and-roll sensibility that shines through on the shelves. It might be strange to call a bottle of gin avant-garde, but that’s precisely what you’ll find here.
P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants, 64 Enmore Rd, Newtown, (02) 9517 9754, pnvmerchants.com
REUNION STORE
P&V WINE + LIQUOR
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. Bondi Markets, 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!
Paddy’s Markets, Wednesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, 9/13 Hay St, Haymarket, (02) 9325 6200, paddysmarkets.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
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.
Paddington Markets, Saturday from 10am, 395 Oxford St, Paddington, 0402 280 633, paddingtonmarkets.com.au
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.
Collectors Markets, Saturdays, Rozelle Public School, Darling St, Rozelle, rozellecollectorsmarket.com.au
MARKETS AT GLEBE
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.
Markets at Glebe, Saturday 10am-4pm, 46-56 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, (02) 9999 2226, marketsatglebe.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. Carriageworks Farmers Market, Saturday 8am-1pm, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh, (02) 8571 9099, carriageworks.com.au
CARRIAGEWORKS FARMERS MARKETS
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.
BLUE SKY HELI TOURS
The icons EXPERIENCES
» 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
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
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
Feeling brave? Step onto the roof of the cable car at Scenic World, 270m in the air.
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
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
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
SCENIC WORLD
SYDNEY TOWER EYE
PHOTOS: DESTINATION NSW, SCENIC WORLD
Aboriginal culture
» Indigienous Australians have lived in Sydney for tens of thousands of years and are part of the world’s oldest living culture.
LEARN ABOUT THE DREAMTIME
In the 1700s, before the arrival of European settlers, about eight Indigenous clans lived along the harbour foreshore. Known as “saltwater people”, they gathered most of their food from the waters, and the harbour had huge spiritual significance. Join the 90-minute Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour to gain an intimate knowledge of these Aboriginal people’s saltwater heritage, their traditions and their modern connections. Dreamtime Southern X, 27 Cope St, Redfern, 0403 686 433, dreamtimesouthernx.com.au
TAKE A BUSH TUCKER TOUR
The Indigenous people of Australia hunted and gathered native plants and wildlife for food and medicine for thousands of years. Learn the timehonoured uses of bush foods, hear Dreamtime stories and sample some of the unique botanicals for yourself in the Cadi Jam Ora garden at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney, (02) 9231 8111, botanicgardens.org.au
THE WORLD’S OLDEST LIVING CULTURE
Understand the spiritual significance of the sixhectare harbourside Barangaroo Reserve on this
DREAMTIME SOUTHERN X
walking tour with an Aboriginal educator from Aboriginal Cultural Tours. Barangaroo was named after a powerful female Cammeraygal leader of the Eora Nation. Hear incredible tales of the traditional peoples’ connections to the harbour and admire the 75,000 native trees that stud the reserve. Barangaroo Aboriginal Cultural Tours, The Cutaway, Barangaroo Reserve, 1300 966 480, barangaroo.com
WIRAWI
Escape the crowds and experience Vivid Sydney from the water on newly refurbished vessel The Wirawi. Cruise amongst the other colourfully lit boats and see the sails of the Sydney Opera House awash with kaleidoscopic design until June 15. A must-do experience event for the whole family. Ticket includes hot food box. tribalwarrior.org, (02) 9699 3491
ABORIGINAL CULTURAL TOURS
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
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
RIVERBOAT POSTMAN
SYDNEY BY KAYAK
PHOTOS:
LETS GO SURFING
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 offer 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
EXPERIENCES
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
TAKE THE BONDI TO COOGEE COASTAL WALK
As one of the most famous beachside cities in the world, Sydney is known for its spectacular coastal pathways. The Bondi to Coogee walk is popular with walkers, joggers and pram-pushing parents. Take the cli -hugging trail past wild coastal scrub, ocean rock pools and water views. Start behind Icebergs at the southern end of Bondi Beach.
bonditocoogeewalk.com
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 AQUARIUM
TARONGA ZOO
PHOTOS: DESTINATION
Present this ad to receive 15% off* general admission
Adventure into the wild at Taronga Zoo Sydney and meet Australia’s iconic and unique wildlife.
Travel across Sydney Harbour and arrive by ferry from Circular Quay.
Enjoy over 13 Keeper talks and the famous ‘Seals for the Wild’ and ‘Free Flight Bird’ Presentations, free with your Zoo ticket.
Stroll amongst Kangaroos, Emus and Koalas and come paw to paw with Dingoes.
Book an unforgettable animal encounter with iconic animals including Koalas, Dingoes, Giraffe and Meerkats (limited availability).
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SYDNEY HARBOUR FERRIES
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 mid1800s, Sydney’s ferries carry 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 street, George Street, between Circular Quay and Central Station, then on to Randwick in the east. There is a separate line that 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.
PHOTOS: DESTINATION
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 (like the ones at Circular Quay or the airport) or you can hail one from the street – just make sure its light is on. Taxis should always operate a meter to calculate the fare and you can pay with a credit/debit card or cash. Rideshare apps like Uber, Ola and DiDi are popular. Download their 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 rail network
Metro Trains
TOP PLACES TO VISIT
