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Aand quick look at the sign at each stop tell exhibitions to better plan your staywill in Sydney. you where you are - the Companion does the A quick look theTraveller’s sign at eachCompanion stop will tell was you rest! After all,atthe where you - the Companion does thewith rest! After created withare you in mind, jam-packed all, the Traveller’s Companion was created with you handy tips, sightseeing recommendations and in mind, jam-packed with handy tips, sightseeing even discount vouchers for things we know recommendations and even discount vouchers for you’d do, we seewould or buy. suggests thingslike weto know likeIttoeven do, see or buy. great places to eat andplaces drink!to eat and drink! It even suggests great We think you’ll find the Traveller’s Companion is like Traveller’s Companion shownshown aroundaround by a friendly local! local! isbeing like being by a friendly
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See pages 48-49
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What’s On In Sydney From festivals to world class performances, Sydney has it all!
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Sydney at a Glance Getting your bearings, and our top tips to seeing even more.
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Dining Out
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The Sydney Tour
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Circular Quay & The Rocks
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City Centre
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Museum & William Street
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Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo
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Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens
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Central Station & Chinatown
63
Powerhouse Museum & Fish Market
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Darling Harbour
55
The Bondi & Bays Tour
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Paddington & Centennial Park
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Bondi Beach
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Rose Bay
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Double Bay
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Sydney A-Z
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A complete list of everything you need to know.
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Contents
5
WHAT’S ON
IN SYDNEY
SYDNEY
HIGHLIGHTS Sydney serves up a cultural feast this summer with a dazzling array of food, films and festivals. Enjoy a smorgasbord of live events, from music and theatre to comedy and sport.
The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Month and Night Noodle Markets
Ope Moonlight Cinema, Bondi Openair Cinema and St. George Openair Cinema
Treat your taste buds and relish sumptuous feasts from celebrity chefs.
Pack a picnic and get ready for the ultimate outdoor cinematic experience.
When: until 31 October Where: throughout Sydney & Hyde Park Cost: free and ticketed events www.sydney.goodfoodmonth.com
When: from December Where: Centennial Park, Bondi Beach and Mrs Macquaries Point Cost: $15–$37 www.moonlight.com.au/Sydney www.openaircinemas.com.au www.stgeorgeopenair.com.au
Culture Beats Darling Harbour Live music, dancing, art and cuisine from around the world will be showcased. When: until 7 November Where: Darling Harbour Cost: free www.darlingharbour.com
Melbourne Cup Day Trot into Randwick to celebrate the famous horse race that stops a nation. When: 3 November Where: Royal Randwick Racecourse Cost: $15-$30 www.australianturfclub.com.au 6
Bondi Openair Cinema
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
WHAT’S ON
Sculpture by the Sea An unique event of art at the beach
SCULPTURE
BY THE SEA The Bondi Beach to Tamarama coastal walk comes alive with art and sculptures. When: 23 October - 8 November Where: Bondi to Tamarama Beach Coastal Walk Cost: free www.sculpturebythesea.com Sculpture by the Sea
Flickerfest Short Film Festival Kick off your summer with short films screened beside the waves of Bondi beach. When: 8–17 January Where: Bondi Beach Cost: Adults $18, Teens $10, Kids $5 www.flickerfest.com.au
Tropfest Australia Short films from around the world premiere at this alfresco cinema event. When: 6 December Where: Centennial Park Cost: free www.tropfest.com
Rolex Sydney Hobart Yatch Race Soak up the harbour views and watch this iconic Australian Boxing Day tradition. When: 26 December Where: Sydney Harbour Cost: free www.rolexsydneyhobart.com
APIA International Sydney The world’s best players fight for tennis glory in this premier tournament. When: 10-16 January Where: Sydney Olympic Park Cost: tickets from $10 www.apiainternational.com.au
Australia Day on Sydney Harbour Sydney sizzles with celebrations including a ferry race, concerts and fireworks. When: 26 January Where: on and around Sydney Harbour Cost: free and ticketed events www.australiaday.com.au
New Year’s Eve Light up the New Year with Sydney’s spectacular fireworks and entertainment. When: 31 December Where: throughout Sydney Cost: free www.sydneynewyearseve.com
Sydney Festival From music and concerts to comedy and theatre, Sydney lights up with culture. When: 7-26 January Where: throughout Sydney Cost: free and ticketed events www.sydneyfestival.org.au Sydney New Year’s Eve
What’s On
7
WHAT’S ON
ON THE
STAGE
Matilda The Musical
- musical
The multi-award winning musical masterpiece. When: Wed 1pm & 7:30pm Thur & Fri 7.30pm Sat 2pm & 7.30pm Sun 1pm & 6.30pm Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre www.sydneylyric.com.au
Rock Lily - live music/comedy Rock plus laughter! A host of comedians and musicians create a fun night out. When: ongoing Where: The Star Cost: free entry www.star.com.au
Swingtime Tuesdays - swing music Hit the dance floor for a night of fun or sit back with a drink and watch the action. When: Tuesdays from 7pm Where: The Basement Cost: $8 www.thebasement.com.au
The Wharf Revue 2015: Celebrating 15 Years - variety show The all singing all dancing satirical spectacular returns with side-splitting laughs. When: 21 October–19 December Where: King St Wharf Cost: $48-$65 www.sydneytheatre.com.au
Good Works
- play
A tale of friendship spanning the ages by acclaimed playwright Nick Enright. When: 31 October–29 November Where: Darlinghurst Theatre Company Cost: $30-$43 www.darlinghursttheatre.com
The Comedy Store Christmas Spectacular - stand-up comedy Local and international comedians host a night of stand-up and musical comedy. When: 19 November–19 December Where: Comedy Store Cost: $12.50–$32.50 www.comedystore.com.au
Stephen Fry
- comedy
The internationally acclaimed author, actor and presenter will be live on stage. When: 21–22 November Where: State Theatre Cost: from $89.90 www.statetheatre.com.au
A Riff On Keef: The Human Myth - play A day in the hedonistic life of Rolling Stone Keith Richards and his motley crew. When: 25 November–12 December Where: Griffin Theatre Company Cost: $32-$49 www.griffintheatre.com.au
Mortido - play
The Sound of Music - musical
Colin Friels stars in this dark, intense Sydney crime drama.
Rogers and Hammerstein’s exquisite musical returns with a new production.
When: 6 November–23 December Where: Belvoir Street Theatre Cost: $39-$92 www.belvoir.com.au
When: from 13 December Where: Capitol Theatre Cost: from $79.90 www.capitoltheatre.com.au
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
WHAT’S ON
Matilda The inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny
SYDNEY
OPERA HOUSE Anything Goes
This musical comedy charts the high seas of topsy-turvy relationships, mistaken identities and foiled schemes. When: 5 Sept-31 Oct Cost: from $59.90
Arms and The Man More than your average love triangle, this is also a playful, piercing satire on vanity and false heroism. When: 14 Sept-31 Oct Cost: $94
Velvet This show is for everyone who remembers the world of disco, and those who are yet to discover it. When: 6 October-1 Nov Cost: $89
20:21
Symphony In The Domain - music Picnic under the stars and delight in the sounds of Sydney Symphony Orchestra. When: 17 January (8pm) Where: The Domain Cost: free www.sydneysymphony.com
Summer Sounds in the Domain - music Celebrate the sounds of Sydney summer with live music from around the world. When: Saturdays in January Where: The Domain Cost: free and ticketed events www.sydneyfestival.org.au
Woyzeck - musical Acclaimed musician Tom Waits reinvents this classic play as a gritty musical. When: 7–12 January Where: Carriageworks Cost: $44–$89 www.sydneyfestival.org.au
The best of the 20th century, the freshest of the 21st - showcases two giants of the New York dance scene and The Australian Ballet! When: 5-21 Nov Cost: $39-$209
Orlando Orlando is a woman, a young man, and a grand epic adventure that transcends time, space and gender. When: 9 Nov-19 Dec Cost: $94
The Sleeping Beauty With its Rose Adage, its grand pas de deux, its charming variations and its enchanting Tchaikovsky score this truly is the zenith of ballet’s golden age. When: 27 Nov-16 Dec Cost: $39 - $199
The Illusionists 1903 This mind-blowing spectacular showcases eight brand-new, world class Illusionists handpicked from across the globe. When: 19-28 Dec Cost: $74.90-$119.90
The Magic Flute The music is enchanting and everyone and everything that appears on stage is larger than life! When: 30 Dec-16 Jan Cost: $44 - $199
La Bohème Nearly 120 years after Puccini wrote his smash-hit La Bohème, this story of first love still tops the list of most performed operas around the world. When: 2-30 Jan Cost: $44-$330
For more events…
www.sydneyoperahouse.com The Magic Flute
What’s On
9
WHAT’S ON
EXHIBITIONIST
SYDNEY
What A Life! Rock photography by Tony Mott The first major retrospective of premier Australian rock photographer Tony Mott. When: ongoing Where: State Library NSW Cost: free www.sl.nsw.gov.au
Grayson Perry—My Pretty Little Art Career The influential works of this renowned Turner prize recipient are showcased. When: ongoing Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Cost: $10-$30 www.mca.com.au
If These Walls Could Talk Step back in time to 1915 Sydney and see the authentic goods and wares on offer. When: ongoing Where: Susannah Place Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Shackleton: Escape from Antarctica Relive Shackleton’s epic tale of Arctic survival through relics and photographs. When: ongoing Where: Australian National Maritime Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.anmm.gov.au
Signs of Life—Letters of the Holocaust Bjork, 1994. Photo by Tony Mott
Bayala Nura: Yarning Country Discover cultural artefacts from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. When: ongoing Where: Australian Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.australianmuseum.net.au
Collision: Misadventure By Motor Car A police archives photographic collection spanning early to mid 20th Century. When: ongoing Where: Justice and Police Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Unique collection of letters written during the Holocaust, offering intimate and powerful insights into this chapter of history. When: ongoing Where: Sydney Jewish Museum Cost: Adult $10, Concession $7 www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
The Museum Experience Discover the rich contribution that the Jewish community has made to Australian society. When: ongoing Where: Sydney Jewish Museum Cost: Adult $10, Concession $7 www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
Female Immigration Depot
Action Stations—The Experience
Stories and artefacts from women arriving in Australia in the mid 1800s.
Experience the drama and history of life at sea with the Royal Australian Navy.
When: ongoing Where: Hyde Park Barracks Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
When: ongoing Where: Australian National Maritime Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.anmm.gov.au
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
WHAT’S ON
Freedom Ride ’65: Unpublished photos from the Tribune archive Explore historic photographs documenting a pivotal change in Australia’s race relations.
FAMILY
FUN
When: until 29 November Where: State Library NSW Cost: free www.sl.nsw.gov.au
Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland Works of revered master painters are brought to Australia for the first time. When: from 24 October Where: Art Gallery NSW Cost: $7-$22 www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
LEGO: Sydney Harbour Come and be inspired by the spectacle of Sydney Harbour’s icons made in LEGO. When: from 21 November Where: Museum of Sydney Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
The Goods Line Walk or cycle above spectacular Sydney hotspots all the way to Darling Harbour. When: ongoing Where: Central Station to Darling Harbour Cost: free www.shfa.nsw.gov.au
Chinatown Night Market Sydney’s famous night market serves up delicious and authentic Asian cuisine. When: every Friday Where: Haymarket Cost: free www.chinatownmarkets.com.au
Santa Fest Experience a white hot Aussie Christmas with music, food and harbourside fun. When: 27 November–24 December Where: Darling Harbour Cost: free www.darlingharbour.com
Coogee Family Fun Day LEGO. Photo: Haley Richardson
Lloyd Rees: painting with pencil 1930-36 Showcases the drawings and sketches of one of the most important 20thcentury Australian artists. When: from 12 December Where: Museum of Sydney Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Live entertainment, kids rides and market stalls by spectacular Coogee Beach. When: 5 December Where: Coogee Beach Cost: free www.coogeebeach.net.au
The Magic Flute Come on a magical, musical journey accompanied by Mozart’s masterpiece. When: 30 December–16 January Where: Sydney Opera House Cost: from $44 www.sydneyoperahouse.com
Carols by candlelight Sing along to Christmas carols at these outdoor concerts by the beach or harbour. When: 9 and 19 December Where: The Domain, Bondi Beach and Kirribilli Cost: free www.waverley.nsw.gov.au www.carolsinthedomain.com Action Stations - Waterfront Pavilion
What’s On
11
GETTING YOUR
BEARINGS Sydney is a large city that spreads north, south and west to the Blue Mountains. If you are here for a while, make the time to take a trip out west to Katoomba and Leura by train, or hire a car and head north along the coast to see Sydney’s northern beaches, some of the most beautiful in the world.
SYDNEY CENTRAL The historical and business heart of Sydney includes The Rocks, Circular Quay, Chinatown and Darling Harbour. This is where you will see some of the real icons of the city, including Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Sydney Harbour
SYDNEY EAST Inner-city suburbs like Kings Cross, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, and Paddington are some of our most historic, and the gateway to beautiful Bondi and the uber-chic suburbs that ring the southern harbour, like Rose Bay and Double Bay. El Alamein Fountain
SYDNEY SOUTH South from Bondi you’ll pass through some of the loveliest beaches in the world, most with rolling surf and a relaxed atmosphere. Check out great surfing beaches like Maroubra before you head further south into Sutherland Shire and beyond. Bondi Beach
SYDNEY WEST The inner-west suburbs of Glebe and Balmain are best known for their bohemian living and arty streak. These lead on to Greater Western Sydney, which houses most of our population, ending just as you reach the foot of the Blue Mountains. Blue Mountains
SYDNEY NORTH Sydney’s northern suburbs and beaches are truly exquisite, from the ever-popular Manly to the sensational Palm Beach. The whole coastline of the northern suburbs is dotted with beaches including our personal favourite, Whale Beach. Manly Beach
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
GETTING YOUR BEARINGS
TOPTIP
A great way to find out what’s happening in Sydney is through the Guest TV channel in many city hotels.
el chann
Guest TV
Getting Your Bearings
13
SYDNEY
AT A GLANCE MACQUARIE STREET
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY
(p59-61)
(p43-45)
Sydney Harbour Bridge
WOOLLOOMOOLOO & KINGS CROSS
(p56-57)
Sydney Opera House Circular Quay
Millers Point
The Rocks
Farm Cove Royal Botanic Gardens
Wynyard
The Star
Woolloomooloo Bay The Domain
Sydney CBD Pyrmont
Potts Point
Woolloomooloo Hyde Park
Darling Harbour
Ultimo
East Sydney
Darlinghurst
Chinatown Paddington
Surry Hills
Haymarket Central
Centennial Parklands
DARLING HARBOUR & CHINATOWN
PADDINGTON (p72-73)
(p62-69)
CITY CENTRE
(p51-53)
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS
(p74-77)
SYDNEY AT A GLANCE
A Vibrant City Experience the diversity and abundance of options Sydney has to offer
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY At the end of the eastern arm of Sydney Cove perches the Sydney Opera House, our most treasured and recognisable building. Take the leisurely walk past quality restaurants and cafes, the buzzing ferry and cruise wharves of Circular Quay to The Rocks; not only can you see Australia’s early history in its sandstone buildings, but The Rocks is one of the best places in the world for a pub crawl!
SYDNEY CITY CENTRE Sydney’s city centre is pretty easy to find your way around, with its main streets running in a grid pattern, dominated by Pitt Street and George Street. Here’s you’ll find some of the best of Sydney’s shopping and it’s always busy and bustling, but make sure to stop in at Hyde Park, visit the Australian Museum and take the ride up to the Skywalk at the top of Sydney Tower Eye.
MACQUARIE ST & ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS Macquarie Street houses some of Sydney’s oldest buildings from colonial times, including Hyde Park Barracks, Sydney Mint Museum, Parliament House of NSW and the Sydney Hospital. The Art Gallery of NSW is nestled in The Domain, a public open space that often hosts free concerts, and leads to the Royal Botanic Gardens, an oasis of calm in the centre of Sydney.
CENTRAL STATION & HAYMARKET Central Station provides the hub for all rail traffic from both city and country. Next to Central is Haymarket, where you’ll find Chinatown and some of the best Asian food outside of the continent. Further towards Darling Harbour you’ll find the Powerhouse Museum and then the Sydney Fish Market, one of the few remaining working fish markets inside a major world city.
DARLING HARBOUR Beautiful by day, but simply sensational by night! It has a huge open-air playground for the kids and other major attractions include the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, IMAX cinema, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and the newly opened Madame Tussauds. Ferries, cruise and jet boats also dock here, and on the far side over Pyrmont Bridge, is the terrific Australian National Maritime Museum. At night, the place stays alive, with locals and tourists thronging the terrific bars and restaurants - try Cockle Bay Wharf and, 10 minutes walk away in Pyrmont, The Star. Sydney at a Glance
15
Opera at the Sydney Opera House
Summer Season From 30 December
New Year’s Eve 31 December 2015
Great Opera Hits The Magic Flute La Bohème The Pearlfishers
The Opera Gala La Bohème
PRINCIPAL PARTNER
HERO PARTNERS
Book at the Sydney Opera House, online or visit your concierge. opera.org.au sydneyoperahouse.com
GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
SYDNEY
ESSENTIALS There’s loads to do in Sydney but if you want to see the premium sights, here’s our guide to what you simply have to do and see …
WANDER
through The Rocks and visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks Discovery Museum and up by the Bridge - the Pylon Lookout (see p43-45).
EXPLORE
Circular Quay and take a ferry to Manly, a cruise or a Hop On Hop Off sightseeing tour (see p4, 30-35).
TAKE
a tour of the Sydney Opera House and then wander through the Royal Botanic Gardens to Mrs Macquaries Chair and thro’ to the Art Gallery of NSW (see p58-61).
STOP
off at Macquarie Street where you’ll find the State Library, Parliament House of NSW, Sydney Hospital, and Hyde Park Barracks (see p60).
WALK
around Pitt or George Streets for a little shopping, then get your bearings from the Skywalk at the top of Sydney Tower Eye (see p51-53).
CROSS
through Hyde Park and visit the Australian War Memorial, crossing to the Australian Museum, before heading to Stanley Street with its amazing selection of eateries (see p54-55).
TAKE
a tour of Darling Harbour; there’s lot to do here including shopping and dining at Harbourside before stopping to enjoy the tranquillity of the Chinese Gardens of Friendship (see p66-69).
CHECK
out Chinatown - one of the largest outside China – with its superb restaurants and Friday night markets (see p62-63).
HEAD
to Darlinghurst for the Sydney Jewish Museum, and afterwards Kings Cross for its restaurants, bars and wild exuberance (see p56-57, 91).
Essential Sydney
17
SYDNEY KIDS
ESSENTIALS If you’ve brought the kids, then Sydney is the right place for you! Here are our top suggestions for enjoying Sydney as a family ...
HEAD
to Darling Harbour and visit the National Maritime Museum where the kids can board a submarine, before trying the flying fox at the Darling Quarter playground (see p21, 67-69).
EXPLORE
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium for an iconic Aussie experience in the city (see p38-39, 66-69).
TAKE
the kids to the Australian Museum, which specialises in interactive displays of Australia’s ancient megafauna. (see p54-55, 91).
TOUR
the Sydney Opera House with special Junior Tours & Junior Lunches on School Holidays (see p58-61).
WALK
over the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the smiling face of Luna Park.
VISIT
the Sydney Observatory and its 3D space theatre (see p43-45).
TAKE
a ferry to Taronga Zoo – the kids will love the Sky Safari chair lift as well as, of course, our native Australian animals in their magnificent surroundings (see p32-33).
SOAK
up the sun at Manly, catch a wave and then visit the sharks at Manly Sea Life Sanctuary (see p34-35).
HOP
on the bus to Bondi to visit the Marine Discovery Centre; afterwards, take a dip and then do the Bondi to Bronte walk. (see p78-81).
TOPTICKET
Sydney Explorer Bus - kids will find a dedicated commentary put together specially with them in mind and hosted by Kev, their on board tour guide (see p37-39).
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
Discover Sydney & Bondi with Sydney’s only Hop On - Hop Off Tourist Bus Service
34
Stops
including
• Harbour Bridge • Opera House • Circular Quay
• Darling Harbour • Kings Cross • Bondi Beach
Ticket valid 24 hours on BOTH Sydney & Bondi Beach Tour Multilingual Commentary Available
Buy tickets: On the Bus • Visitor Centres • Hotels • Travel Agents • Online
City
(02) 9567 8400 www.sydneyexplorer.com.au Information
TOP 10 MUSEUMS
& GALLERIES 1. Art Gallery of NSW
Sydney’s most notable gallery is brimming with inspiring Australian and international exhibitions. www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
2. Australian Museum
Enter a remarkable zoological realm revealing exotic Australian animals, plants and dinosaurs (see91). www.australianmuseum.net.au
Australian Museum
3. Australian National Maritime Museum
Come on board historic ships and experience fascinating exhibitions exploring life on the water (see opposite). | www.anmm.gov.au
4. Hyde Park Barracks Museum
Australian Maritime Museum
Extraordinary stories and history from the penal colonies are housed within these 19th century buildings (see p50). | www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
5. Justice & Police Museum
Glimpse the dark history of Sydney’s underbelly at this museum of law and justice. www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Hyde Park Barracks Museum
6. Museum of Sydney
Archaeological remains from colonial Sydney are revealed alongside Sydney’s fascinating Indigenous history. | www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
7. Powerhouse Museum
Planes, trains and space shuttles are just some of the 500,000 treasures waiting for you here! www.maas.museum/powerhouse-museum
Museum of Sydney
8. State Library of NSW
Explore this magnificent Sydney icon and enjoy free exhibitions, public talks, film screenings and superb café (see90). | www.sl.nsw.gov.au
9. Sydney Jewish Museum
Powerhouse Museum
Explore the history of Jewish life in Australia and the Holocaust on a guided tour (see p91) - don’t miss! www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
10. The Rocks Discovery Museum Incredible stories unfold from pre-1788 to the present, documenting the transformation of this historic precinct. | www.therocks.com
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
Sydney Jewish Museum
CLIMB ABOARD
Spectacularly located on the Darling Harbour waterfront, here you’ll find lively exhibitions, tall ships, Navy warships, a submarine and beautifully restored historic vessels.
DARLING HARBOUR 9:30AM TO 5PM DAILY ANMM.GOV.AU • (02) 9298 3777
DINING
OUT EAT
STREETS Circular Quay, The Rocks and Sydney Opera House Enjoy the views from the many bars, restaurants and cafes at the Sydney Opera House and Opera Quays... Follow the foreshore west to the historic warehouse eateries at Campbells Cove or wander down George and Argyle Streets in The Rocks for vibrant cafes, restaurants and the city’s oldest pubs.
City Centre Amble south on George or Pitt Streets and grab a bite at one of the many cafes, or slip into Ash Street (off Angel Place near Wynyard) for laneway eateries off the beaten track. Fancy a picnic? Brave the bustling food courts of Westfield or David Jones on Market Street, then stroll to Hyde Park. Or else, from here venture east down William Street for scores of cheap eats on Stanley Street.
Darling Harbour & Chinatown Darling Harbour’s eastern foreshore is continually abuzz with waterfront cafes, restaurants and bars that cater to any palate. From here it’s a stone’s throw to Chinatown—just walk up Sussex Street and roam Campbell, Dixon and Hay Streets for authentic Asian cuisine and the best ‘yum cha’ Sydney has to offer.
Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo For a taste of Sydney’s ‘hip’ dining scene, stroll north on Macleay Street from the El Alamein Fountain then left at Challis Avenue. From here, walk left up Victoria Street into the culinary hot spot of Darlinghurst or amble down the well-trodden steps to Woolloomooloo for waterfront bars and restaurants. If you’re hungry for laneway dining, head south from the Fountain then right up Llankelly Place.
TOPTIP
Aussies usually tip 10–15% at eateries with top-notch service but skip the tip when ordering takeaway. Prices should always include Goods & Services Tax (GST – 10% ‘sales tax’).
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
DINING OUT
Sydney Dining Let your taste buds do the walking in these popular dining districts. From ‘cool’ cafes to ritzy restaurants, you’ll find a smorgasbord of eateries to satisfy your appetite
COFFEE
DECODED
Espresso (short black): a 25ml shot of pure coffee — rich, dark and intense.
Long black: a double espresso serving up the ultimate caffeine kick.
Ristretto: the first 15ml of coffee extracted from an espresso—a purist’s drink.
Macchiato:
B.Y.O. &
CORKAGE BYO stands for ‘bring your own alcohol’. Most BYO cafes and restaurants charge a few dollars corkage per person or per table (even if your wine has a screw cap!).
Paddington ‘Five Ways’ Paddington Home to some of Sydney’s best watering (see pgs72-73) holes, Paddington is the capital of ‘pub grub’. After exploring the shops and cafes on Oxford Street, walk northeast along William or Elizabeth Streets and explore the blocks in between for good old-fashioned pubs and bistros. Glenmore Road in Five Ways is well worth the 10-minute walk down the hill to a bustling pocket of cafes, restaurants and pubs.
a 90ml shot of espresso finished with a dollop of textured milk.
Cappuccino: 200ml of espresso with steamed milk, foam and chocolate sprinkles.
Caffé latté: Italian for ‘milk coffee’—200ml of espresso, steamed milk and foam.
Flat white: 200ml of espresso and steamed milk—no froth or sprinkles.
Mocha: a hot chocolate with a shot of espresso—the ultimate marriage between sugar & caffeine!
Cold drip coffee: a fancy fad with coffee extracted over 12 hours and served cold.
Bondi Waterfront dining at Sydney’s iconic beach – try the Bondi Pavilion, or the lively beachfront strip along Campbell Parade which hosts everything from takeaway to fine dining. Heading away from the beach, Hall Street, Curlewis Street and Gould Street are brimming with eateries, while just north of Bondi Beach you’ll find the award-winning North Bondi RSL Club in Ramsgate Avenue (see p25 & discount voucher). Dining Out
23
DINING OUT
LOVE DINING,
LOVE
TOPFIVES ...Hidden Cafes
THE STAR
1. La Renaissance Café Pâtisserie
Celebrity chefs offer tastes from around the globe in one of Sydney’s best known dining precincts …
2. Courtyard Café Da Capo
Sokyo Chef Chase Kojima brings the buzz of Tokyo to Sydney with his impeccable union of traditional craftsmanship and an innovative take on contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Balla
47 Argyle Street, The Rocks 8 Macquarie Street (courtyard of the Sydney Eye Hospital), Sydney
3. The Bunker 399 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst
4. Chapter One 3A/34 Campbell Parade, Bondi
5. Rose Bay Marina Kiosk 94 New South Head Road (beneath 5 The Sailors Club), Rose Bay
The addition of a wood-fired grill to Stefano Manfredi’s Italian kitchen reflects his dedication to delivering truly authentic cuisine.
BLACK by ezard Chef Teage Ezard features signature seafood dishes and grass, grain, wet and dry aged beef specifically sourced for the wood fired grills and sous vide cooking.
Momofuku Seiobo Look out for David Chang’s bold and innovative flavours as he works with the best ingredients Australia has to offer.
The Century Captures the essence of Golden Century, the group’s popular flagship restaurant, by serving its favourite classics with an emphasis on the very best, fresh seafood.
Fat Noodle The man behind this dynamic mix of Vietnamese, Chinese and Malay is Luke Nguyen, one of Australia’s leading celebrity chefs.
THE STAR 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont Visit star.com.au to book
TheStar @TheStarSydney
...Dining With A View 1. Café Sydney F ine dining with an iconic backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Level 5, Customs House, Circular Quay www.cafesydney.com
2. Captain Cook Cruises The views don’t get any better than this! Circular Quay & Darling Harbour www.captaincook.com.au (see p32)
3. The Glenmore casual rooftop bar with a breathtaking A harbour vista. 96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks www.theglenmore.com.au
4. North Bondi Italian njoy mouthwatering meals served E metres from the sand. 118 Ramsgate Avenue, North Bondi www.northbondiitalianfood.com.au
5. Zaaffran ontemporary Indian food with C stunning views over Darling Harbour. Level 2 Harbourside Centre, DH www.zaaffran.com 24
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
See map p79 6
See map p63 2
Dining Out
25
DINING OUT
A GOOD
NIGHT OUT 6pm: Start your night out with a
cocktail at the exquisite Marble Bar inside the Hilton Hotel (488 George Street, near Town Hall). Then make your way to the sophisticated Bambini Wine Room (185 Elizabeth Street, near Hyde Park).
7.30pm: Walk through Hyde Park towards the Australian Museum, then turn onto William Street. Tucked behind the museum is a little suburb called East Sydney, brimming with restaurants. Explore Stanley Street and down a drink at Darlo Village Hotel (234 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst, corner of Liverpool Street). 10pm: Continue up William Street towards Kings Cross then turn right onto Darlinghurst’s bustling Victoria Road. Enjoy a cheeky vino at Lil’ Darlin or a cocktail upstairs at the colonialstyle The Victoria Room (235 Victoria Street).
12am: If you’re after a nightclub head to Kings Cross, but beware Darlinghurst Road, notorious for its strip clubs. Kick up your heels at Hugos Lounge (33 Bayswater Road) or dance the night away at Kit and Kaboodle (37 Darlinghurst Road). 3am: A night out in Sydney is not complete without a pie at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels. Soak up the booze while viewing the city skyline over the spectacular harbour at Woolloomooloo.
Kings Cross
Harry’s Cafe de Wheels
26
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
DINING OUT
...Pre-theatre Nibbles & Drinks 1. The House Eatery by George Enjoy table service, shared plates and drinks with a (great) view! Western Boardwalk, Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com/eatanddrink
SIGNATURE SIGNATURE RIBS RIBS
2. Zeta Bar erfect for a cocktail near the Theatre P Royal or State Theatre. Hilton Hotel, 488 George St, Sydney www.zetabar.com.au
3. Gazebo Wine Garden ample a vino after a show at S Darlinghurst Theatre Company. 2 Elizabeth Bay Road, Kings Cross www.gazebowinegarden.com.au
4. Gardel’s Bar A buzzing bar and restaurant near Belvoir Theatre. Upstairs at Porteño restaurant, 358 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills. www.porteno.com.au
5. Flying Fish rink and dine a stones throw from D Sydney Lyric Theatre. Pier 21, Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont www. flyingfish.com.au
...Bars After Dark 1. Opera Bar njoy live jazz on the foreshore of E Sydney Harbour. Lower concourse, Sydney Opera House www.operabar.com.au
AWARD-WINNING AWARD-WINNING STEAKS STEAKS
2. Argyle Bar eritage architecture meets trendy H bar design. 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks www.theargylerocks.com
3. The Tilbury Hotel down-to-earth pub with a buzzing A courtyard. 12–18 Nicholson St, Woolloomooloo www.tilburyhotel.com.au
4. Mrs Sippy The new ‘hip’ hangout for Sydney’s cool crowd. 37 Bay Street, Double Bay www.mrssippy.com.au
5. Bondi Hardware J oin stylish locals at this characterladen bar. 39 Hall Street, Bondi www.bondi-hardware.com.au Dining Out
27
See map p45 3
DINING OUT
THE DINING TABLE
Been there, done that and now looking for a well earned break? To help you get the best from the many choices Sydney has to offer, we’ve simplified our top picks below...
Cuisine
Area
Asian Delima Restaurant Chinatown Umi Kaiten-Zushi Haymarket Niji Double Bay Chinese East Ocean Chinatown The Emperor’s Choice City House of Guangzhou Chinatown Red Chilli Sichuan Restaurant Chinatown European Adria Bar Restaurant Darling Harbour Gelato Bar Bondi French The Little Snail Darling Harbour German Bavarian Bier Cafe Bondi Lowenbrau Bar Brasserie The Rocks Indian Zaaffran Darling Harbour Italian Beppi’s Ristorante East Sydney Limoncello Ristorante Double Bay Lucio’s Italian Restaurant Paddington Otto Ristorante Woolloomooloo Kosher Pita Mix Rose Bay Twenty One Double Bay Modern Australian Botanic Gardens Restaurant Botanic Gardens Captain Cook Cruises Sydney Harbour Catalina Rose Bay Fortune of War The Rocks Hyde Park Barracks Cafe City The Governor’s Table Bar & Dining City The Bistro at North Bondi RSL Club Bondi Opera Bar Opera House Pink Salt Double Bay Ravesi’s Bondi Sydney Dance Lounge Walsh Bay Ribs, Tapas n’ Stuff! Hurricane’s Bar & Grill Bondi Ribs and Rumps Manly Sgt. Sam’s Kings Cross Stacks Taverna Darling Harbour Seafood Bondi Surf Seafoods Bondi Nick’s Seafood Restaurant Darling Harbour The Sailors Club Rose Bay Steaks Hurricane’s Bar & Grill Bondi I’m Angus Darling Harbour Ribs and Rumps Manly Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse City Thai Blue Monkey Thai Rose Bay Thai Princess East Sydney Vietnamese La Mint East Sydney
Page
Map
63 63 85
63 63 85
63 53 63 25
63 53 63 63
69 79
69 79
65
65
81 45
79 45
69
69
55 85 73 57
55 85 73 57
83 85
83 85
61 32 83 28 61 53 25 61 85 79 45
61 45, 69 83 45 61 53 79 61 85 79 45
81 27 57 69
79 35 57 69
79 69 83
79 69 83
81 69 27 53
79 69 35 53
83 55
83 55
55
55
Dining Out
29
AROUND THE
HARBOUR Seaforth
Clontarf MIDDLE The Spit H AR B Beauty Point
SAILORS Bay
MAP LEGEND Ferry Wharf
UR O
Beach
Beach Attraction Bay NG LO
Bondi Suburb Hop On Hop Off Harbour Explorer
Hunters bay
(Routes are indicative only)
0
1
Balmoral
N
2
3
kilometres
Georges Heights
Mosman Cremorne
Mosman Mosman Bay Bay
Neutral Bay
Luna McMahons Park North BERRYS Point Sydney
Balls head bay
Cockatoo Island
Birchgrove
East Balmain
White Bay Cruise Terminal
y Ba TE HI W
The Rocks
Pyrmont
Pyrmont Pyrmont Bay Bay Fish Market
Glebe
NEUTRAL Bay
Fort Denison Sydney Opera House
Garden Island
Circular Quay
CENTRAL SYDNEY Darling Darling Harbour Harbour
Darling Harbour Surry Hills
The best way to reach Taronga Zoo is with a Zoo Express or Hop On Hop Off combo ticket – these will take you to Taronga Zoo wharf and then access the zoo by cable car, the Sky Safari - not to be missed!
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
Sydne harbou
Clarke Island
ELIZABETH Bay
Potts Point
Darling Point
Kings Cross
Elizabeth Bay
Darlinghurst
TOPTICKET
30
Bay
ATHOL Bay
Kirribilli
King St King Wharf Wharf
OUR HARB
Balmain
Kurraba Point
Milsons Point
Goat Island ING DARL
Balmain Balmain West
Bay
C
Taronga TAYLORS Xoo Zoo
Woolwich
Greenwich
Clifton Gardens
DOUBLE Bay
Double Bay
Paddington Centennial Parklands
Freshwater
The finest harbour Declared ‘the finest harbour in the world’ in 1788 by Captain Arthur Phillip, Commander of the First Fleet, magnificent Sydney Harbour is one of the city’s major highlights. Exploring its waterways, bays, beaches, headlands and charming suburbs is a must-do when you’re here!
Manly Balgowlah
Shelly Beach
MANLY COVE
Balgowlah Heights NORTH HARBOUR Quarantine Station Grotto Point
North Head
s
Middle Head
South
South Head
OBELISK Bay
PACIFIC
Fas t Fe
Chowder Bay
Watsons Bay
Ma nly
S
OCEAN
rry
Hornby Lighthouse
WATSONS BAY
Macquarie Lighthouse
Vaucluse House
Vaucluse
ey ur
Shark Island
ROSE Bay
Point Piper
Dover Heights
Rose Bay
Bellevue Hill Woollahra
North Bondi
CIRCULAR
QUAY
The main transport hub for the city’s ferry network, Circular Quay is the only place where ferry, bus and train services intersect … for timetable information call 131 500 or visit www.131500.com.au Sydney Ferries depart daily for a host of harbour trips, as does the Manly Fast Ferry and the harbour ‘Hop On, Hop Off’ services to the top harbour locations from only $35 (see pages 4 and 32)...
Bondi
Tamarama Bronte
Clovelly
Manly Fast Ferry Coogee
Around the Harbour
31
AROUND THE
HARBOUR Sydney is rightly proud of its dazzling harbour and there is so much to do and see. Here’s our top tips for things to see on a great day on the harbour ...
DARLING HARBOUR The launching pad for a number of cruises, including tour boats, speed boats, jet boats, tall ships and ferries.
LUNA PARK Catch a Hop On Hop Off sightseeing cruise for a day trip out and back to the smiling face of Luna Park, a Sydney landmark and a great place for a day out.
FORT DENISON Just a short ferry ride from Circular Quay, this historic fort is a great place for a meal in the middle of the harbour.
COCKATOO ISLAND This former prison and shipyard is a lovely spot for a historical tour and a picnic, or camp overnight.
TARONGA ZOO Start from the top and meander down this lovely harbourside zoo. Ferries and cruises arrive every half hour or so.
WATSONS BAY A trip to Watsons Bay at the south head of the harbour and its wonderful restaurants is a true pleasure.
MANLY A boat ride to Manly is a must on any visit. The view of Sydney as you return to Circular Quay is dazzling.
TOPTICKET The best way to reach Manly is by Fast Ferry leaving Wharf 6 Circular Quay ($8.50 single, $17 Return). Alternatively combine your ferry to Manly with a Hop On Hop Off sightseeing cruise and visit other great destinations including Taronga Zoo (see pages 4 & 32).
Around the Harbour
33
NORTHERN
BEACHES
& MANLY Manly Beach Like Bondi, Manly Beach is both a local and an international favourite
WHAT TO DO IN MANLY A gentle surfing beach, it rarely gets too rough for swimmers and the golden shores are patrolled by the famous Manly Surf Club lifesavers in their iconic caps and ‘Speedos.’ Manly itself is a compact little suburb, with shops lining The Corso, the main street leading from Manly Wharf to Manly Beach, where the esplanade is dotted with great restaurants and cafes. Manly retains its village atmosphere at night as well, and is famed for its easy-going style and lack of pretentiousness.
SWIM
Manly Beach has plenty of waves for the surfers but is a fantastic swimming beach as well.
SNORKEL
Shelly Beach is a marine conservation area, so take a dive or a snorkel and come face to face with the local marina flora and fauna.
SHARK!
Yes, you can dive with the sharks at Manly Sea Life Sanctuary, but if this sounds a bit extreme, you can view them and other aquatic creatures from the safety of the underwater tunnel.
SWOON
To the Little Penguins. While you can’t get close to them, guides at Manly Wharf will show you the colony of Little Penguins that have made Manly home for centuries.
SHOUT
At the Q Station, Sydney’s former quarantine station that has now been turned into an historical attraction, complete with nightly ghost tours.
34
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
AROUND THE HARBOUR
TOPTIP One of the best ways to explore our fabulous northern beaches is to hire a car - suggested routes are shown to Palm Beach and West Head in Ku-ring-gai National Park.
Around the Harbour - Manly
35
GETTING AROUND
Ferry
Buses
A fantastic way to get around while catching the sights of Sydney’s iconic harbour, hop on a ferry with services to the inner harbour, the eastern suburbs, Manly or the Parramatta River. All Sydney Ferries depart from bustling Circular Quay. A bargain way to see the harbour is the Circular Quay to Manly route. Tel: 131 500 www.sydneyferries.info
Sydney Buses runs services throughout the city almost 24 hours a day. The main bus terminals are located at Circular Quay, Wynyard, Town Hall and Central Station. Some buses are pre-pay only so get your ticket at any newsagent. Tel: 131 500 www.sydneybuses.info
Trains CityRail trains have a large network across Sydney which run from approximately 4am until after midnight on most lines. Central Railway Station is the main junction for interstate and intrastate rail services. Tel: 131 500 www.cityrail.info
Metro Light Rail Grab a ticket for the Metro Light Rail tram, which runs from Central Station through Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Star City Casino, the Sydney Fish Markets, Wentworth Park and Dulwich Hill. 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tel: 9285 5288 www.metrotransport.com.au
36
AirportLink Offers fast travel and frequent transfers between Sydney Airport and the city in only 13 minutes. Cost: $16.40 (Domestic Terminal) and $17.20 (International Terminal), $5.40 inter-terminal transfer. www.airportlink.com.au
TopTickets MyMulti Day Pass is an all-in-one ticket that gives you unlimited train, bus and ferry travel throughout Greater Sydney, Cost: Adult $23, Child $11.50 If you’re here longer then you have the option of buying these for a week (or longer), and the cost will differ depending on how far you want to travel around the city. Cost: Adult $45-63, Child $23-31.50 sydneytrains.info/tickets/which/mymulti
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
GETTING AROUND
Hop-On Hop-Off Take a full tour, use the bus to get from one place to another or do both!
SYDNEY & BONDI
EXPLORER BUSES The Explorer’s hop on - hop off tourist bus service takes in many of Sydney’s most famous attractions including the Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kings Cross, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Rocks and Darling Harbour. Your ticket also includes the Bondi and Bays Explorer for a 90 min round trip to the world-famous Bondi Beach and Harbour Bays.
TOURS RUN ALL DAY, EVERY DAY
The 24 or 48 hour ticket allows you to plan your own itinerary and you may join the tours at any Explorer stops along the route and change between the Sydney and Bondi tours at various listed stops. The Explorer’s open-top, double-decker bus tours run all day and every day of the year. The Sydney Tour departs from Stop 1 (Alfred Street at Circular Quay) at 8.30am and the Bondi Beach tour departs from Eddy Ave at Central Railway Station at 9.30am. The last tour departs at 5.00pm and the service terminates at 6.30pm.* When: Daily from 8.30am then every 15-20 minutes (45 min frequency for Bondi Tour). Cost: Both Tours are included in ticket price $40 Adult, Child (5-16 yrs) $25.00, Senior (60+ yrs) $30.00, Family $110.00* * Off-peak times - see driver for specific scheduling
Tel: 9567 8400 www.sydneyexplorer.com.au
360 degree views from the top deck
SYDNEY IN YOUR LANGUAGE
Sydney in your Language
Willkommen, bienvenue, bienvenido! Multilingual commentary is available on select buses in 7 Languages: Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, French, German, Spanish and English, including adult and children’s channels.
Getting Around
37
EXPLORER
BUSPLUS
TICKETS Combine Sydney’s Best Attraction Tickets with a 24hr Sydney and Bondi Explorer fare for great sightseeing value
Connection Tickets
Sydney Attractions Purchase 1 or more attraction tickets with your Explorer Tour ticket and save!
Joint Tickets
Ferry Combos Visit the city’s major landmarks from land and water with a 24hr Hop on Hop off Bus and Ferry Joint Ticket. Tickets may be used on separate days.
Purchase tickets from your Explorer driver or hotel concierge
Purchase tickets directly from your Explorer driver or hotel concierge
EXPLORER ON BOARD
TICKETS
Fastrack Tickets
No more standing in lines
Fast Track entry tickets to Sydney’s top attractions are now available on board the Explorer buses. See your driver for tickets and more information.
Combination Tickets
Combine and save Valid for WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds Sydney and Sydney Tower Eye tickets
Other Top Attractions
Discover Sydney
Take the official 1 hour guided tour and discover the history, magic and stories inside one of the greatest buildings of all time. Sydney’s highest open air attraction offers an unique perspective of this incredible harbour city and a glass floor viewing platform for views of the city below. Ride a wave at beautiful Bondi Beach with your own professional instructor. Great for individuals, families or groups wanting a exciting surfing experience. Enjoy the stunning views of Sydney Harbour with a 2 hour 15 min Harbour Story Cruise. Cruises include an informative commentary and light refreshment. Discover the Blue Mountains with the Explorer’s 29 stop, hop on-hop off tour across Katoomba and Leura complemented by a fun and informative commentary. Save with the Lyrebird pass combining a Blue Mountains Explorer Bus ticket with an entry pass to Skyway, Cableway and the Scenic railway. Travel by coach to a number of destinations including Hunter Valley, Jenolan Caves, Port Stephens and the Blue Mountains with Gray Line Day tours.
THE MAGICAL
SYDNEY
TOUR
From Circular Quay, you’ll take a trip through the centre of the city, then on a big loop out the Kings Cross and Woolloomooloo before heading back in through the Royal Botanic Gardens. You’ll get a close-up view of the Sydney Opera House, a stately drive down historic Macquarie Street, through Hyde Park and then you’ll head out to Pyrmont. 40
Passing through Darling Harbour, you’ll then head down Hickson Road - known to Sydneysiders as the Hungry Mile and round the tip of Dawes Point to the base of the Sydney Harbour Bridge Here you’ll experience the most spectacular views - the glistening harbour, the creamy sails of the Opera House and the broad expanse of the Harbour Bridge. No wonder we love it - and you will too!
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
SYDNEY TOUR
Skywalk at Sydney Tower Eye Take a walk on air 268 metres above stunning Sydney, with the city streets directly beneath your feet.
EXPERIENCE THE
VIBRANCE OF SYDNEY Hop on the big red open-top doubledecker Explorer bus to experience the celebrated scenery, landmarks and attractions of Sydney and Bondi Beach
Circular Quay & The Rocks Colourful history and the gateway to our beautiful harbour See pages 43-45
Central Business District Sun-drenched parks & sensational shopping in Sydney’s centre See pages 51-53
Museum & William Street Australian natural history mingles with contemporary food See pages 54-55
Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo Sydney’s dark side resides in its oldest suburb See pages 56-57
Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens History, culture and our most glorious icon See pages 59-61
Central & Haymarket Bustling quarter is open all hours See pages 62-63
Powerhouse Museum & Sydney Fish Market Science, technology and seafood heaven See pages 64-65
Darling Harbour A busy waterfront hub of entertainment and attractions See pages 67-69 Sydney & Bondi Explorer
The Magical Sydney Tour
41
EXPLORE THE ROCKS Nestled on the edge of Sydney Harbour, The Rocks offers an unrivalled blend of the old and new. From heritage architecture and cobblestoned laneways, to stylish modern bars, the famous Rocks Markets, some of Sydney’s finest restaurants, curious places to shop and explore and the renowned Museum of Contemporary Art. The Rocks: a perfect blend of experiences worth savouring.
#TheRocks
therocks.com
THE ROCKS
& CIRCULAR QUAY
GATEWAY
HOP ON
HOP OFF
TO THE CITY
Stops
Circular Quay and The Rocks are the beating heart of Sydney, the starting point of our modern nation and for any tour of Sydney.
FINDING
YOUR FEET
Circular Quay is home to Sydney’s most famous icons and is a bustling, working inner harbour. Look down and you’ll see marked out where the original foreshore reached in 1788, look up and you’ll see the most beautiful natural harbour in the world, dominated to the west by the Sydney Harbour Bridge and graced to the east by the Sydney Opera House. Follow Circular Quay west towards the bridge and you will find The Rocks, the site of original European settlement. Along the cobblestoned walks of the historic Rocks you will discover an abundance of things to do. Be sure to explore its laneways, including Nurses Walk and Suez Canal, which got its name before drains were installed.
1 22 23 24
WHAT’S NEARBY Take the short walk along the eastern shore of Circular Quay, past many restaurants and bars, to the glorious Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens (see p61). The lovely western shore walk takes you past The Rocks to Sydney Cove, Campbells Cove and Dawes Point.
Aboriginal Art Galleries - Shop 13 Opera Quays (p90)
The Rocks & Circular Quay
43
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY
TEN l0 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
TOP TOURS The Rocks Walking Tours
1 Pylon Lookout Climb the 200 stairs to the original Sydney lookout
2 BridgeClimb Set your sights high over the water below
3 The Rocks Discovery
Museum Discover The Rocks from the past to the present
Get up close and personal with the history of Sydney on these 1.5hr walks. Daily tours depart from 23 Playfair Street, The Rocks.
The Rocks Ghost Tours Your ghost host challenges you to book if you dare! Nightly tours depart from Cadmans Cottage, 100 George Street, The Rocks.
4 The Rocks pubs Landmark pubs vie with uber-trendy bars
5 Sydney Observatory Take a night-time view of the stars over the harbour
6 Susannah Place Museum See a rare example of an 1844 working-class home
7 Museum of Contemporary
Art
Captain Cook Cruises
Check out the MCA’s brand new wing
8 Harbour Ferries & Cruises Jump on a ferry or a cruise for a quintessential Sydney experience
9 The Justice & Police Museum Delve into the forensic photography archives
10 Museum of Sydney Built on the site of our first government house
BridgeClimb
DON’T
MISS... The Rocks Markets Peruse artisan stalls selling homewares, art, jewellery, leather goods, clothes and one-off pieces every Saturday and Sunday - 10am to 5pm. Visit therocks.com for more information. The Rocks Markets
44
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY 1
1
2
3
$
4
Sydney Visitor Centre (Information & Bookings)
2 5
$
6
5 3
$
Aboriginal Art Galleries (pg 90)
7
4
8
City Explorer | Sydney (Information & Bookings)
Fortune of War 2 for 1 (pg 28)
9
10
$
Sydney Visitor Centre Free Wi-Fi DISCOUNT VOUCHER
$
Fortune of War Hotel 2 for 1 Meals DISCOUNT VOUCHER
$
Aboriginal Art Galleries 30% Off
DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Sydney Dance Lounge Not to be missed - the food is as amazing as the view! Pier 4/5 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay Tel: 9241 5021
2 Lowenbrau Bar Brasserie Live it large at Lowenbrau! Cnr Argyle and Playfair Streets, The Rocks Tel: 9247 7785
LOCAL FAVOURITE
3 Fortune of War Hotel
$
Lunch or dinner in Sydney’s oldest pub (see p28 & voucher). 137 George Street, The Rocks Tel: 9247 2714
4 Captain Cook Cruises Dinner, high tea, lunch & breakfast (see p32). Wharf 6, Circular Quay Tel: 9206 1111
GREAT CUPPA
The Rocks Friday Foodie Market
Guylian Belgian Chocolate Cafe
Savour a little world of flavour in this open-air fresh food market. Jack Mundey Place & Playfair Street
Belgian Chocolate, Italian coffee, Australian cool. 91 George Street, The Rocks
The Rocks & Circular Quay
45
Love Sydney. Love The Star. The glittering harbour, glamorous nightlife, world-class restaurants, designer shopping, luxe hotels and heavenly spa. You’ll find the best of Sydney at The Star.
80 PYRMONT STREET, PYRMONT STAR.COM.AU
/THESTAR
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. Think! About your choices. Call Gambling Help 1800 858 858 www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au
CITY
CENTRE
SYDNEY’S
HOP ON
FASHION CENTRAL Get to know the hub of Sydney’s commercial precinct and taste some of the best shopping in the southern hemisphere in Sydney’s CBD (Central Business Disctrict)
FINDING
YOUR FEET
From Wynyard, you can take a short stroll up either George St or Pitt St. Remember to stop at Martin Place, Sydney’s corporate heart, to take in the rich mixture of architectural styles. From there, head towards Pitt Street Mall and the Queen Victoria Building (QVB), with its stunning domed roof and intricate stained glass. The Westfield Sydney Shopping Centre on Pitt Street Mall has undergone a billion-dollar renovation and now offers many levels of designer fashion stores and fantastic eateries. From the QVB, head over to Town Hall, built in the 1880s in the grand Victorian Second Empire style, and make sure to check out its beautiful Centennial Hall.
HOP OFF Stops
2
C
WHAT’S NEARBY Dominating the centre of Sydney is the lovely Hyde Park, where you can soak up the sun in the heart of the city. At the Southern end is the imposing Anzac War Memorial and its pool of reflection, and the bronze Apollo of the Archibald Fountain on the northern side. There are often food and drink events, but you can also just sit back and relax or play a game of chess near the kiosk.
Archibald Fountain, Hyde Park
City Centre
51
CITY CENTRE
TEN l0 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
TOP TOURS Historical Walking Tours
1 Martin Place
The City of Sydney history program has produced a number of self-guided historical walking tour brochures that you can download from www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Some of the best buildings in Sydney, especially the GPO
2 Theatre Royal Take in a show at the striking Theatre Royal
Friends of Town Hall
3 Pitt Street Mall
Guided tours are available by appointment at Town Hall, George Street.
This open-air mall is the shopping heart of Sydney
4 Sydney Tower Eye Stop your heart with a view through the glass floor!
5 Queen Victoria Building This ornate Victorian beauty houses designer boutiques
6 Town Hall This working council chamber hides secrets within
7 St Andrews Cathedral Take in an organ recital at
Sydney Tower Eye
1.10pm every Thursday
8 Australian Opal Cutters
$
Sydney’s premier retailer of Australian opals and pearls
9 Hyde Park Take some time out in these beautiful surrounds
10 Anzac War Memorial This sombre building tells the story of Australia at war
Anzac War Memorial, Hyde Park
DON’T
MISS Opal Cutting Experience Experience quintessential Australia and see the different stages of the opal cutting process done right in front of you! Only at Australian Opal Cutters (see pages 46-47).
Escape Hunt Sydney Set in an historical Sydney setting, as famous detectives, find clues and solve puzzles to escape the room in 60 minutes. Exciting, addictive FUN for all ages (Level 4, 393 George St - see p89). 52
Sydney Town Hall, George Street
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
CITY CENTRE
1
2
1
3
$
2
Escape Hunt (pg 89)
3 4
4
5
5
$
Australian Opal Cutters (pg 46-47)
9 6
8
7
10 6
$
Escape Hunt Sydney
20% Off DISCOUNT VOUCHER
$
Australian Opal Cutters $50 Off
DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Governor’s Table Bar & Dining Try some Mod Oz in old-time Sydney. 37 Phillip Street Tel: 9241 1788
2 The Emperor’s Choice
Chinese Restaurant The Peking Duck is a house speciality - a must try. 261 George Street Tel: 9247 7740
3 Kingsleys Steakhouse Sensational steak! 29a King Street Tel: 9295 5080
6 BBQ City Restaurant Fabulous Korean barbeque cuisine - bookings (absolutely) recommended. Shop 5, 519 Old South Head Road Tel: 9371 8259
City Centre
53
MUSEUM
& WILLIAM ST
SYDNEY’S PAST
HOP ON
AND PRESENT The Australian Museum and St Mary’s Cathedral herald the way to the great eateries of East Sydney. William Street is a major thoroughfare which runs from Hyde Park to Kings Cross.
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Australian Museum
$
Enjoy the interactive displays of Australia’s ancient megafauna (see p91)
2 Cook & Phillip Aquatic Park Take a dip in the underground pool
Australian Museum
3 St Mary’s Cathedral Take a 20-minute tour of this huge Catholic cathedral
4 Stanley Street Foodie zone dedicated to the best in world cuisine
5 Bondi Interchange D E After the Museum, hop on the Explorer bus to Bondi & Bays 54
St Mary’s Cathedral
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
HOP OFF Stops
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3
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Australian Museum (pg 91)
2
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Australian Museum 20% Off Entry DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Beppi’s Ristorante The Polese family’s pride and joy since 1956. 21 Yurong Street, East Sydney Tel: 9360 4558
2 25th Floor The ‘70s and ‘80s come alive in the Bayview Boulevard Hotel. 90 William Street, East Sydney Tel: 9383 7222
3 Thai Princess Contemporary & traditional Thai food & interiors. 118 Crown Street, East Sydney Tel: 9332 3284
LOCAL FAVOURITE
4 La Mint French-Vietnamese elegance in delicate surrounds. 62-64 Riley Street, East Sydney Tel: 9371 8161
5 Bill & Toni’s You beaut Italian on a budget. 74 Stanley Street East Sydney Tel: 9360 4702
6 Lord Roberts Hotel One of the best rooftop beer gardens in Sydney. 64 Stanley Street, East Sydney Tel: 9331 1326
GREAT CUPPA
Love, Tilly Devine
Hyde Park Cafe
Tilly was a madam but this bar is all class. 91 Crown Lane, East Sydney
Lap up the sunshine as you sup on a cappuccino. Hyde Park South
Museum & William Street
55
KINGS CROSS
& WOOLLOOMOOLOO
KINGS CROSS &
WOOLLOOMOOLOO Kings Cross can get pretty wild at night so if you are not a party animal, go by day. Like the working-class suburb of Woolloomooloo, it is undergoing gentrification.
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Sydney Jewish Museum
$
Discover Sydney’s Jewish history and and the evocative history of the Holocaust (see p91)
2 Kings Cross Sunday Markets Worth a visit, 10am - 4pm at historic Fitzroy Gardens
3 Elizabeth Bay House
Kings Cross
$
Take a historic tour of this stately 1830s home
4 Harry’s Cafe de Wheels Take a photo with the stars at this legendary pie cart
5 Woolloomooloo Wharf Fine dining on the wharf with naval views 56
Sydney Jewish Museum
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
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HOP OFF Stops
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5 1
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Elizabeth Bay House
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Sydney Jewish Museum 2 for 1 Entry DISCOUNT VOUCHER
$
Elizabeth Bay House 2 for 1 Entry DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Otto Ristorante
3 Piccolo Bar
Reinvents the flavours of Italy in stylish new forms. Area 8, 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo Tel: 9368 7488
Fabulous Italian food and homemade cakes. 6 Roslyn Street, Kings Cross Tel: 9368 1356
4 Sgt. Sam’s
2 Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel
A Sydney favourite famed for its flamed grill Ribs & Chicken! Ward Ave, Kings Cross Tel: 9331 8880
Heritage-listed beauty with smashing ambience and views. 2 Bourke Street, Woolloomooloo Tel: 9332 1227
LOCAL FAVOURITE
GREAT CUPPA
Tropicana Cafe
The Victoria Room
Where the Tropfest short film festival was born. - 227 Victoria St, Darlinghurst Tel: 9360 9809
Lift your pinkie at Victoria’s High Tea. Level 1, 235 Victoria St - Darlinghurst Tel: 9357 4488
Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo
57
Sydney Opera House Tours & Experiences Discover the stories, history and magic of Sydney Opera House with an incredible guided tour taking you underneath the world famous sails. Complete the experience by adding a delicious tasting plate for two overlooking sparkling Sydney Harbour – the perfect way to spend to your day at the Sydney Opera House.
BOOK ONLINE & SAVE 15%. USE PROMOCODE SOH15TC
SY D N E Y O P E R A H O U S E P R I N C I PA L PA RT N E R
Book at the Box Office or visit sydneyoperahouse.com 9250 7777
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
& ROYAL BOTANIC
GARDENS
SYDNEY’S
HOP ON
CROWNING GLORY The iconic Sydney Opera House is the starting point for the loveliest sights you’ll ever see, taking in our most historic buildings and all within easy walking distance.
FINDING YOUR FEET
You have to actually see the sails of the Sydney Opera House in person, and what better way to discover the city than getting up close and personal with our most famous icon. Turn the corner and take a leisurely walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, home to an eclectic display of native and introduced species, or explore the buildings within the gardens and The Domain such as Government House, the Conservatorium of Music and the Art Gallery of NSW. One stretch of Macquarie Street is simply a must-do, taking in the State Library, Parliament House, the Sydney Hospital, the Mint Museum and ending at Hyde Park Barracks. This is the finest group of colonial-era buildings Australia has to offer.
HOP OFF Stops
8
9 10
11
WHAT’S NEARBY Take the short walk along the eastern shore of Circular Quay, past many restaurants and bars, to the glorious Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens. The walk from Bennelong Point to Mrs Macquarie’s Point is simply superb and only takes about 20 minutes. This foreshorehugging scenic walk takes in Farm Cove and ends at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens
59
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE & ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS
TEN l0 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
TOP TOURS Sydney Opera House
1 Sydney Opera House Head under the sails for a tour of this world-famous icon (see p58)
2 Government House Delve into this Gothic revival building
3 Conservatorium of Music Take a tour of ‘The Con’ for a free concert in Verbrugghen Hall
Take a sneak peak behind the scenes of Sydney’s pride and joy. Departs daily between 9am - 5pm.
Macquarie St Guided Walk Search for Matthew Flinders’ cat and Governor Macquarie himself. Tours depart from Government House Gates or St James Church Bookings essential.
4 State Library of NSW Check out the immense collection of Australiana in the Mitchell Wing
5 Parliament House of NSW Sit in on Question Time if you dare!
6 Sydney Hospital Rub the nose of Il Porcellino outside this working hospital
7 Sydney Mint Museum Tour the oldest building in central Sydney
8 Hyde Park Barracks Museum
Sydney Opera House
Swing with the convicts (in hammocks!) at the barracks
9 Art Gallery of NSW See the great works of indigenous, colonial and modern artists
10 Andrew (Boy) Chariton Pool Cool off in this open-air public pool
DON’T
MISS
Art Gallery of NSW
Cadi Jam Ora: First Encounters An award-winning garden display that interprets the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Speakers Corner Speakers range from the disciplined to the deluded at this age-old ritual in The Domain on Sunday from 2pm-5pm Government House
60
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE & ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS
Sydney Opera House (pg 58)
1 1 2
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Hyde Park Barracks (see p50)
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Opera Bar
3 Palace Gate Cafe
Stunning views of the harbour and the house. Lower Concourse, Sydney Opera House Tel: 9247 1666
Just outside the Palace Gate off Macquarie Street, this popular. kiosk is open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9:30am-4:30pm
2 Botanic Gardens Restaurant
4 Hyde Park Barracks Cafe
Open-air dining in exquisite garden surroundings. Mrs Macquaries Road Tel: 9241 2419
Magnificent cafe in this World Heritage listed building (see p50). Queens Square Tel: 9222 1815
Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens
61
CENTRAL
STATION
& CHINATOWN
CENTRAL STATION
& CHINATOWN
These bustling inner-city areas are open all hours and house some of Sydney’s best restaurants and bars. Experience this colourful mix of Asian culture, shopping and food.
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Capitol Theatre Soak up the ambience at this “atmospheric” theatre
2 Paddy’s Markets Pick up something cheap & cheerful at Sydney’s oldest market (p49)
Chinatown
3 Chinatown Stop for yum cha, or dine al fresco on Dixon Street Mall
4 Chinatown Night Market Check out the stalls every Friday, 4pm - 11pm
5 Sydney Entertainment
Centre Catch a gig or a musical at this huge complex 62
Paddy’s Market
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
HOP ON
HOP OFF Stops
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Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets (see p93) Interchange for Sydney Explorer Buses (see p16, 37-39)
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Delima Restaurant Discover the true art of Indonisian cuisine. Level 5, 1 Dixon Street Tel: 9267 7045
2 Red Chilli Sichuan
Restaurant Renowned for its authentic Chinese cuisine (see p25). 25-29 Dixon Street, Haymarket Tel: 9211 8130 Lvl 1, 8 Dixon Street, Haymarket Tel: 9211 8122
5 Mount Batten Hotel Great pub food in an honest pub. S701 George Street, Haymarket Tel: 9280 4700
6 Umi Kaiten-Zushi Sushi fresh each day from the Fish Markets. 477 Pitt Street, Haymarket Tel: 9283 2006
3 East Ocean Yummiest yum cha in Sydney. 421 Sussex Street, Haymarket Tel: 9212 4198
4 House of Guangzhou The best steamed vegetable dumplings in town. 76 Ultimo Rd, Haymarket Tel: 9281 2205
LOCAL FAVOURITE
Central Railway Station
GREAT CUPPA
Scruffy Murphy’s
Fire Station Cafe
Irish fun for the younger crowd. 43-49 Goulburn Street Tel: 9211 2002
Quench your thirst in the former. Fire Station - 465 Pitt Street Tel: 9211 2348
Central Station & Chinatown
63
POWERHOUSE
MUSEUM
& FISH MARKET
POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
& FISH MARKET
Hop off at the terrific technology-focused Powerhouse Museum and hop back on again for a trip to the Sydney Fish Market - the world’s third largest fish market
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Powerhouse Museum Get tech-savvy at this science and technology museum
2 Sydney Fish Market Find the finest fresh fish at this working market (see p93)
Powerhouse Museum
3 Light Rail Jump on the tram to Sydney’s trendy inner west
4 Wentworth Park
Greyhounds Head for a night at the dogs, from 6:30pm Friday and Saturday
5 Glebe It’s a 10-minute walk to Glebe’s Saturday Markets, 10am - 4pm 64
Glebe Markets
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
HOP ON
HOP OFF Stops
13 14
POWERHOUSE MUSEUM & FISH MARKET
1 2
Check out the inner suburbs with Sydney ‘s Light Rail
4 1
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OUR TOP
DINING TIP 1 The Little Snail Sensational escargot in superb surrounds. 50 Murray Street Tel: 9212 7512
LOCAL FAVOURITE
La Banette Patisserie - Glebe
GREAT CUPPA
Pyrmont Bridge Hotel
La Banette Patisserie
Big beer, big steak, big fun. 96 Union Street Tel: 9660 6996
A charming French patisserie. 18 Glebe Point Road Tel: 8095 9688
Powerhouse Museum & Fish Market
65
DARLING HARBOUR
THE BEAUTIFUL
HOP ON
DARLING HARBOUR Originally a commercial port, Darling Harbour has undergone a complete transformation over the last 20 years to become one of Australia’s leading entertainment and leisure quarters.
FINDING
YOUR FEET
It’s hard to believe that a prime piece of waterfront real estate like Darling Harbour was left to languish not so long ago but many Sydneysiders still remember it that way. The empty warehouses and disused wharfs were to become a bit of an embarrassment to a city that prides itself on its beauty, so in 1984 money was allocated for its complete redevelopment. In 1988, Australia’s bicentenary year, Darling Harbour was unveiled and now throngs with residents and tourists alike, and plays host to numerous restaurants, bars and cafes. It’s newest attraction, Darling Quarter, is a huge free playground for the kids. Check it out!
HOP OFF Stops
15 16 17 18 19 20
WHAT’S NEARBY There is so much to do at Darling Harbour that you don’t need to venture too far, so try one of the lovely walks along the foreshore. The western shore can be difficult to navigate but the eastern shore has a walk along Cockle Bay and on to King Street Wharf, both of which are lined with superb restaurants and bars.
Harbourside
Darling Harbour
67
DARLING HARBOUR
TEN l0 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO
TOP TOURS Captain Cook Cruises
1 The Star
Award-winning lunch and dinner cruises and ‘Hop On Hop Off’ Harbour Explorer. Depart daily from Pier 26 & King Street Wharf No.1 (see p32)
This refurbished casino is also known for its shows and dining
2 Australian National
Maritime Museum
$
Clamber aboard a submarine and a destroyer (see pg21)
3 Harbourside Shopping
Jetboat Rides These rides speed off daily from King Street Wharf.
Centre Shop at classy boutiques with waterside views
4 Hard Rock Cafe Great food, cocktails and live music - Rock On!
5 Chinese Gardens of Friendship Zen out in these tranquil gardens and the fabulous teahouse
6 Darling Quarter Playground Water games, slippery slides and a 21m flying fox!
Chinese Gardens of Friendship
7 IMAX Theatre Blow your mind at this huge 3D cinema
8 SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
$
Nurse your fears as the sharks swim above!
9 Madame Tussauds Now in Sydney, the ultimate celebrity experience!
10 WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo Say hello to Rex - the massive saltwater crocodile
Australian National Maritime Museum
DON’T
MISS... WILD Flight! Soar through the treetops high above some of Australia’s most iconic animals with the all new WILD Flight treetop adventure at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
Fun and Frightening Get your heart racing in SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s Shark Valley and then share a smile with playful dugongs in the new Dugong Island.
68
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
DARLING HARBOUR
The Star (see p48)
6
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Australian National Maritime Museum
1
Captain Cook Cruises (see p32)
2
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Sydney Visitor Centre (Information & Bookings)
6
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Maritime Museum
Free Glass of Wine DISCOUNT VOUCHER
$
SEA LIFE Aquarium
20% Off Boat Ride DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 The Star One of the top dining precincts in Sydney (see pp24 & 48). 80 Pyrmont St www.star.com.au
2 Zaaffran One of the best indian restaurants with waterfront views. Level 2 Harbourside Centre www.zaaffran.com
3 Stacks Taverna Seafood, pizza, tapas or cook your own steak at the indoor BBQ. Shop 24/25 Darling Quarter 1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney www.stacksbar.com.au
4 Adria Bar Restaurant Experience the flavours of the Adriatic seaside. The Promenade, Cockle Bay www.nicks-seafood.com.au/adria
5 I’m Angus Steak House Choice cuts of prime Angus beef served at the water’s edge. The Promenade, Cockle Bay www.imangussteakhouse.com.au
6 Captain Cook Cruises Dinner, high tea, lunch & breakfast (see p32). Pier 26 & King Street Wharf 1 www.captaincook.com.au
Darling Harbour
69
BONDI
THE BAYS &
BEYOND
The tour picks you up from Central Station and heads east towards Paddington and then on to Bondi. Make sure you spend at least a couple of hours exploring this iconic beach and suburb, before hopping back on the bus for the spectacular views of North Bondi and Ben Buckler headland and through the exclusive suburb of Vaucluse. Bondi Explorer
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
BONDI & THE BAYS
Trendy Bondi One of Sydney’s best claims to fame – besides its beauty, fun and devastating charm, of course – is the closeness of some of its best beaches to the city centre.
EXPERIENCE AUSTRALIA’S
MOST FAMOUS BEACH
Head east to take in our iconic inner city beaches and bays. The 90-minute Bondi & Bays Tour is the easiest way to get around and see our lovely beaches at their best.
Paddington Super shopping and the gateway to the east See pages 72-73
Centennial Parklands Meet native wildlife in their natural environment See pages 74-77
Bondi Beach Sun, surf, sand, shops? Superb. See pages 78-81
Rose Bay Sweeping views of Sydney’s finest See pages 82-83
Double Bay Where fashion boutiques meet cafes and bars See pages 84-85
You’ll see the lovely Rose Bay with its views of the habour, head into boutique and cafe-filled Double Bay and then make your way back through Woolloomooloo to the city centre. How’s that for a ride?
Bondi, The Bays & Beyond
71
PADDINGTON & CENTENNIAL
PARKLANDS
GATEWAY
HOP ON
HOP OFF
TO THE EAST
Stops
“Paddo” is not only a lovely suburb featuring historical buildings, easy walks and great shopping - it’s also the gateway to one of our city’s oldest treasures, Centennial Parklands!
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Oxford Street Top-class designers are stationed along Oxford Street
2 Paddington Five Ways Eat and drink in this famous five-street junction
Oxford Street Shopping
3 Paddington Reservoir Gardens Award-winning Romanesque gardens are a hidden secret
4 Paddington Markets Top-class markets showcasing art, craft and fashion every Saturday (see also pgs 94, 95)
5 Centennial Parklands One of the world’s finest public parks (see pgs 74-77)
72
Paddington Markets
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
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Paddington Markets Every Saturday
Centennial Park Moore Park Rd Entrance
CENTENNIAL PARK
AD E
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Buon Ricordo
4 Paddington Inn
A long-time standout with many awards. 108 Boundary Street Tel: 9360 6729
One of Australia’s original gastro pubs. 338 Oxford Street Tel: 9380 5913
2 Christo’s Five Ways Pizzeria
5 Paddington Arms Hotel Great pub grub and fabulous Sunday roasts. 384 Oxford Street Tel: 9360 9668
A Five Ways institution that never changes. 24 Glenmore Road Tel: 9360 6796
6 Lucio’s Italian Restaurant
3 The Royal, Five Ways
A Sydney favourite with dazzling reputation. 47 Windsor Street Tel: 9380 5996
Traditional pub dates to the late 1800s. 237 Glenmore Road Tel: 9331 2604
LOCAL FAVOURITE
GREAT CUPPA
Four in Hand
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar
The giant squid points to a bar with a difference. 105 Sutherland Street
No one ever tires of Max’s mocha. 437 Oxford Street
Paddington & Centennial Parklands
73
CENTENNIAL
PARKLANDS
ONE OF THE WORLD’S
FINEST PUBLIC PARKS Centennial Parklands is the birthplace of modern Australia, and where Sydneysiders have come to play for more than 125 years. The Parklands is made up of three adjoining public parks – Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queens Park. Originally a place of swamp and rocky outcrop, the beautiful Victorian-style Centennial Park is known as the green lungs of the city. The adjacent Moore Park is a hub of sports and entertainment. Queens Park is a major community sport
and dog walking park in the eastern suburbs. The Parklands is just minutes from the Sydney CBD and there is something for everyone – the Wildlife and Heritage Walk is a great overview, while you can also hire a bike, have a picnic, play a round of golf or just sit under one of the 15,000 trees!
Busbys Pond
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
The Federation Pavilion The Federation Pavilion in Centennial Park marks the birthplace of modern Australia
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 A wonderful walk Walk the free wildlife and heritage trail and see awesome native wildlife including Sydney’s famous flying fox colony
2 Try horse riding
Go for a park ride
Available all year round
3 Go for a bike riding Bike hire available in the Centennial Parklands
4 Lunch in the outdoors Sydney’s best picnic experience is right here!
5 Australia’s best public golf Like golf? Play a round or hit off our huge driving range
Try Sydney’s best picnic spot
“CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS IS FULL OF FUN AND SURPRISES” Hire a bike in the park
Centennial Parklands
75
CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS
FREE WILDLIFE &
HERITAGE WALK
Centennial Park is the only place in the city where you’ll be able to spot native wildlife in its natural environment You’ll be absolutely stunned on this FREE 1 hour self-guided Wildlife & Heritage Walk as you spot elegant black swans, colourful lorikeets, noisy kookaburras and bat colony. And why not stop for lunch or morning tea at the stunning Centennial Parklands Dining. This leisurely 3km walk starts near the Paddington Gates off Oxford Street.
See Sydney’s largest bat colony
DON’T
MISS... Spot native birdlife like you’ve never seen
Tour highlights include 1. Native wildlife in their natural environment 2. Beautiful Australian trees, plants and flowers 3. Story of Australian Federation 4. History of the Park
Stop for a photo at the Lily Pond Bridge
76
5. And … Sydney’s world-famous bat colony!
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
WALKING TOUR MAP Pick-up your FREE Centennial Park Wildlife & Heritage Walk brochure from the Bondi Explorer bus or from the Visitor Information Counter in Centennial Park to learn more about one of the world’s finest public parks. Alternately, the full map is available as a PDF at:
www.centennialparklands.com.au/walkingtour
To find our more about the latest events and things to do, visit: centennialparklands.com.au Centennial Parklands
77
BONDI
BEACH
SYDNEY’S ORIGINAL
BRONZED AUSSIE! Just 8km from the city centre, the legendary Bondi Beach is not only a great surfing and swimming beach, it also abounds in cafes, restaurants and shops. You can’t miss it!
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Bondi Baths Do some laps in these 100-yearold plubic baths
2 Bondi Pavillion Catch some theatre, art, music or an exhibition
Marine Discovery Centre
3 Marine Discovery Centre Take a tour of the sea life in Bondi Bay
4 Bondi Markets Vintage, designer clothes and crafts every Sunday
5 North Bondi Surf School Take a lesson while the kids take a swim Bondi Markets
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
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The landmark Bondi Pavilion
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North Bondi RSL Club ($25 meal deal)
BONDI BAY
Baths
TAMARAMA PARK
Bondi to MARKS PARK Bronte Walk (see pg 80)
$ $
North Bondi RSL Club $25 Meal Deal DISCOUNT VOUCHER
Ben & Jerry’s Bondi
2 scoops for the price of 1 DISCOUNT VOUCHER
OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Hurricane’s Bar & Grill
4 Bondi Surf Seafoods
Best steaks and ribs in iconic Bondi Beach (see p81). 130 Roscoe Street Tel: 9130 7101
Bondi’s oldest, most famous and liveliest fish shop. 128 Campbell Parade Tel: 9130 4554
2 Bavarian Bier Cafe
5 Gelato Bar
Oktoberfest all year round with a twist of Bondi. 108 Campbell Parade Tel: 8988 5935
3 Ravesi’s
6 North Bondi RSL Club
Outdoor refreshments just steps from the beach. 118 Campbell Parade Tel: 9365 4422
LOCAL FAVOURITE Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop
Traditional European cuisine, great coffee and deserts. 140 Campbell Parade Tel: 9130 4033 $
Delicious food classics with a modern twist (see p25). 118-120 Ramsgate Ave Tel: 9130-3152
GREAT CUPPA $
Ice cream lovers of the world unite! 138 Campbell Parade - Bondi Beach
The Crabbe Hole Coffee and views for supremacy. 1 Notts Avenue
Bondi Beach
79
BONDI TO
BRONTE BONDI TO BRONTE
COASTAL WALK
Take this spectacular coastal walk along the cliffs. Bondi is perfect for a leisurely yet scenic walk. The most famous is Bondi to Bronte, an easy, strollerfriendly walk that offers plenty of stops for a swim or a coffee along the way. It stretches 3.4km and requires about an hour or two, depending on age and fitness. This very popular walk starts at the south end of Bondi Beach and takes in gentle Tamarama Beach as well as headland views from Mackenzies Point. If you are really fit you can continue on to Coogee Beach, or retrace your steps back to Bondi and head Ravesi’s north towards the headland known as Ben Buckler, taking in North Bondi and the Kiddies Pool on the way.
The Bondi Beach Lifeguard Tower
Then jump back on the bus at Stop H and enjoy the glorious views of some our most exclusive suburbs, including the lovely Vaucluse, before you reach Rose Bay.
The Tamarama Beach Lifeguard Tower
The Bronte Beach Lifeguard Tower
0
250 500
750 1000
METRES
To Coogee - 15 minute walk and definitely worth it! Make sure to visit Sauce Bar and Grill famous for their Ribs and Steaks.
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
See map p79
Open 7 days 12pm-late 130 Roscoe Street (close to Bondi stop) Tel (02) 9130 7101 bondibeach.hurricanesgrill.com.au $12 Signature Cocktails 3pm - 6pm See map p79 1
ROSE
BAY ROSE OF
HOP ON
TRANQUILITY
HOP OFF
Located only 7 kilometres east of the Sydney central business district, this lovely suburb features beautiful waterside walks and shopping in a relaxing enviroment.
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Shopping Rose Bay is known for its stylish boutiques & homewares stores
2 Seaplanes Take a flight on a floating plane
3 Kayaking
Seaplanes
Take a paddle out on this beautiful bay
4 Lyne Park Have a picnic in this great park with harbour views
5 Hermitage Foreshore
Scenic Walk The scenic walk takes in craggy cliffs and secluded coves Hermitage Foreshore Scenic Walk
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The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
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OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 The Sailors Club Famous seafood restaurant in sublime setting. 594 New South Head Road Tel: 9327 6561
2 Catalina Multi-award winner is one of Australia’s best. Lyne Park Tel: 9371 0555
3 Club Rose Bay Beautiful spot for a cold beer or wine. - Cnr Vickery Ave & New South Head Road Tel: 9371 9412
4 Rose Bay Hotel Comfortable pub loved by the locals. 807 New South Head Road Tel: 9371 8161
LOCAL FAVOURITE
5 Blue Monkey Thai Top Thai in a town that loves it. 517 Old South Head Road Tel: 9388 2850
6 Bar Doppio Best grilled haloumi sandwiches in Sydney. Shop 5, 519 Old South Head Road Tel: 9371 8259
7 Pita Mix Lovely kosher nosh at this mis’adah. 502 Old South Head Road Tel: 9388 4400
8 Pappa Pizza House This Rose Bay institution keeps it traditional. 509 Old South Head Road Tel: 9371 7054
GREAT CUPPA
Sydney Harbour Escapes
Grandma Moses
Hop aboard a fully catered catamaran. 594 New South Head Road Tel: 9328 4748
Coffe and kosher bread are stars! 513 Old South Head Road Tel: 9371 0874
Rose Bay
83
DOUBLE
BAY DOUBLE BAY’S
HOP ON
HOP OFF
CHIC STREET
Stops
Discover the boutiques, tree-lined streets and cafes that make Double Bay one of the most desirable places to live and shop in Sydney
FIVE 5 TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO 1 Browse boutiques Shop designer fashion and jewellery on Cross Street and Transvaal Avenue
2 Sip cocktails Discover the bars popular with locals along Bay Street
Bay Street, Double Bay
3 Cafe culture Sip a coffee whilst people watching at a cafe on Knox Street
4 Top restaurants Japanese, Italian, Modern Australian, seafood ... take your pick!
5 Double Bay Foreshore Take a stroll or picnic at this tranquil foreshore
84
Double Bay Nightlife
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
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Redleaf Pool
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Double Bay’s famous Knox Street
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OUR TOP
DINING TIPS 1 Royal Oak Perennial favourite houses Roberto’s restaurant. Cnr Bay & Cooper Streets Tel: 9363 3935
2 Pink Salt Fabulously stylish gourmet restaurant and bar. Shop 2, 53 Cross Street Tel: 9328 1664
3 Simmone Logue Fine Food A legend in providing fresh, spontaneous fine food. 2 Cross Street Tel: 9380 6744
4 Le Bukhara Gulab Jamun sweet dumplings done Mauritian style. 55 Bay Street
LOCAL FAVOURITE
5 Limoncello Ristorante Classy Italian in a classy suburb. 29 Bay Street Tel: 9363 3656
6 Twenty One A local icon serving Hungarian goulash and dumplings. 21 Knox Street Tel: 9327 2616
7 Niji Fabulous Japanese in a funky venue. 21 Bay Street Tel: 8095 9508
8 Golden Sheaf Hotel The Soda Bar oozes Eastern Suburbs eclectic style. 429 New South Head Road Tel: 9327 5877
GREAT CUPPA
Cosmopolitan Cafe
Mrs Sippy
Sydney icon serving coffee for over 40 years. Shop 2, 6-22 Knox Street
Cocktails and gourmet pizzas for the hip crowd. 37 Bay Street
Double Bay
85
Discover the Cities of Australia
City
Australian Hop On - Hop Off Tours Our hop on-hop off tours are specifically designed to showcase and access the unique attractions, scenery and landmarks of each city. As an introduction to a new city or for a fresh look at a familiar one, discover an Australian city with City Explorer - Australia’s Tourist Bus service.
Sydney & Bondi
Blue Mountains
Brisbane
Darwin
Perth
Hobart
City
www.theaustralianexplorer.com.au
hop on hop off
hop on hop off
hop on hop off
Now you’ve explored Sydney come up to the Blue Mountains! Catch the TrainLink Intercity train departing hourly from Sydney to Katoomba to board the Blue Mountains’ original and only doubledecker hop on hop off bus. Includes live commentary. Adult $40 • Child $20 • Concession $35 • Family $100
29
Stops Including
Echo Point - Three Sisters Scenic World
Leura Village
Katoomba Lookouts
Buy Tickets: On the Bus • Visitor Centres • Hotels • Travel Agents • Online
30 minutes frequency all day every day. Save with the Lyrebird pass combining a Blue Mountains Explorer Bus Ticket with an entry pass to Scenic World: Skyway • Railway • Walkway • Cableway
1300 300 915 www.explorerbus.com.au Information
SYDNEY
A-Z
BridgeClimb This famous climb is not for the faint at heart or kids under 10 years old. Where: 3 Cumberland Street, The Rocks When: Daily, dawn ‘til dusk Cost: Adult from $188, Child (10-15 only) from $128 Tel: 8274 7777 www.bridgeclimb.com
Pylon Lookout One of the best views of the city with exhibits on the building of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Where: South East Pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge When: Daily 10am-5pm Cost: Adult $11, Child (5-12) $4, Child (0-4) free Tel: 9240 1100 www.pylonlookout.com.au
Captain Cook Cruises Full range of sightseeing, dining and ferry services (see p 32). Where: Wharf 6, Circular Quay When: Daily from 9.30am to 7pm Tel: 9206 1111 www.captaincook.com.au
THE ROCKS
& CIRCULAR QUAY 43-45
Susannah Place Museum A rare surviving example of a simple working-class terrace. Where: 58–64 Gloucester St, The Rocks When: Admission by guided tour only, Daily 2pm-5pm Cost: Adult $8, Child $4, Family $17 Tel: 9241 1893 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Sydney Observatory A night telescope viewing session is great fun, as is the 3D space theatre. Where: Observatory Hill, Watson Road, The Rocks When: Daily 10am-5pm, bookings essential for night visits (approx 8.15pm-9.30pm) Cost: Free entry to museum & exhibition. Day Tour: Adult $8, Child (4-15) $6, Family (1+3, 2+2) $22; Night Tour: Adult $18, Child (4-15) $12, Family (1+3, 2+2) $50 Tel: 9921 3485 www.sydneyobservatory.com.au
The Justice & Police Museum
Museum Of Sydney
$
Discount Voucher
This modern museum sits on the site of our first government house. Where: Corner Phillip and Bridge Streets When: Daily 10am-5pm Cost: Adult $10, Child $5, Family $20 Tel: 9251 5988 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Museum Of Contemporary Art The cutting edge of contemporary art is on display at this brutalist-style building. Where: 140 George Street, The Rocks When: Daily 10am-5pm Cost: Adult $15, Child $10, Family (2+2) $40 Tel: 9245 2400 www.mca.com.au
88
Step into the dark side of Sydney’s past with a visit to a historic police and court building. Where: Cnr Albert and Phillip Streets, Circular Quay When: Sat & Sun 10am-5pm Cost: Adult $10, Child $5, Family $20 Tel: 9252 1144 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
The Rocks Markets Homewares, art, jewellery, leather goods, clothes and one-off pieces on the weekend, with Friday set aside for the foodies market. Where: George St, The Rocks When: Markets: Sat-Sun 10am-5pm; Foodies Market: Fri 10am-4pm Cost: Free entry Tel: 9240 8717 www.therocks.com
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
CITY
CENTRE 51-53
Anzac War Memorial The principal state war memorial dedicated to Australians who served their country in war. Where: Hyde Park North When: Daily 9am-5pm Cost: Free Tel: 9267 7668 www.anzacmemorial.nsw.gov.au
Interactive fun for all ages
Sydney Tower Eye The best view in town from 300 metres above the city. Where: 100 Market Street, Sydney. When: Daily 9am-10.30pm Cost: Observation deck: Adult $25, Child (4-15) $15, Family (2+2) $80; Skywalk: Adult $65, Child (10-17) $45 Tel: 9333 9288 www.sydneytowereye.com.au
The Escape Hunt Experience
$
Interactive live escape room game - play detectives in historical Sydney themed puzzle rooms to escape in 60 mins! Where: Level 4, 393 George Street When: Daily 10am-8.30pm Cost: from $36/person (min 2 people, bookings essential) Tel: 9299 3929 www.sydney.escapehunt.com
The State Theatre The traditional and the contemporary combine in this lavish theatre. Where: 49 Market Street, Sydney When: Daily 9am ‘til late Cost: Varies per performance Tel: 9373 6655 www.statetheatre.com.au
Town Hall The interiors are as fascinating as the exterior of this landmark building. Where: 483 George St, Sydney When: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Cost: Free Tel: 9265 9189 www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
60 Minutes One Mission Escape!
Sydney’s most original and exhilarating attraction Level 4, 393 George Street Sydney 9299 3929 sydney.escapehunt.com See map p53 4
Sydney A-Z
89
FREE EXHIBITION
MUSEUM
& WILLIAM STREET 54-55
Australian Museum
17 OCT 2015 TO 7 FEB 2016
#RockMoments @statelibrarynsw
MACQUARIE ST SYDNEY 2000 (02) 9273 1414 WWW.SL.NSW.GOV.AU Find us on IMAGE: MICK JAGGER © TONY MOTT P&D-4535-9/2015
$
Discount Voucher
Science meets history and culture in Australia’s best natural history museum. Where: 6 College Street When: Daily 9.30am-5pm Cost: Adult $15, Child (5-15) $8, Family (2+2) $38, Family (1+2) $23 Tel: 9320 6000 www.australianmuseum.net.au
Cook & Phillip Park Aquatic Centre World-class swimming and recreational facilities in the heart of the city. Where: 4 College St (nr St Mary’s Cathedral When: Mon-Fri 6am-10pm, Sat-Sun 7am8pm Cost: Pool Adult $6.40, Child $4.80, Family (2+2 or 1+3) $17 Tel: 9326 0444 www.ymcasydney.org/cookandphillip
St Mary’s Cathedral The imposing Catholic cathedral runs guided tours every Sunday at 12pm. Where: Cnr St Mary’s Road and College St When: Daily 6.30am-6.30pm (Sat 8am-6.30pm) Cost: Free Tel: 9220 0400 www.stmaryscathedral.org.au
See maps p45 5 p53 5
90
Australian Museum
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
A coastal journey with Australia’s Indigenous peoples
KINGS CROSS
& WOOLLOOMOOLOO 56-57
Elizabeth Bay House
$
Discount Voucher
This fine colonial house with landscaped gardens also contains part of the original owner’s insect collection. Where: 7 Onslow Avenue, Elizabeth Bay When: Fri-Sun 11am-4pm Cost: Adult $8, Child $4, Family $17 Tel: 9356 3022 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Kings Cross Organic Markets Top-notch organic food markets in the heart of Kings Cross. Where: Fitzroy Gardens, Macleay St, Kings Cross When: Sat 8am-2pm Cost: Free entry Tel: 9999 2226 organicfoodandfarmersmarkets.com.au
Harry’s Cafe de Wheels Legendary pies ‘n peas vendor right on Woolloomooloo wharf. Where: Cnr Cowper Wharf Roadway & Brougham Rd, Woolloomooloo When: Daily 8.30am ‘til late Cost: Depends on your appetite Tel: 9357 3074 www.harryscafedewheels.com.au
Sydney Jewish Museum
EXHIBITION ON NOW 1 William Street, Sydney australianmuseum.net.au
Holocaust and Australian Jewish History
$
This extraordinary museum is considered one of the best in the world and has evocative and engrossing exhibitions. Where: 148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst When: Sun-Thurs 10am-4pm, Fri 10am2pm, closed Sat and Jewish Holy Days Cost: Adult $10, Child $7 (under 16), Family (2+) $22 Tel: 9360 7999 www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst.
sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
Sydney A-Z
91
State Library of NSW
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE &
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS 59-61
Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool A beautiful open-air public pool with spectacular views of the harbour. Where: Mrs Macquaries Road,The Domain When: Daily 6am-7pm Cost: Adult $5.80, Child $4.40, Family (2+2, 1+3) $16.50 Tel: 9358 6686 www.abcpool.org
Free history and heritage tours of the State Library are run every Tuesday and Thursday at 10.30am. Where: Macquarie St When: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm Cost: Free Tel: 9273 1414 www.sl.nsw.gov.au
Sydney Opera House
Indigenous and Australian colonial art are on permanent display. Where: The Domain When: Daily 10am-5pm (Wed to 9pm) Cost: Free entry to permanent collections, ticket prices vary for special events Tel: 9225 1744 www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
Discover the stories, history and magic of Sydney Opera House with an incredible guided tour taking you underneath the world-famous sails. Where: Bennelong Point When: Daily 9am- 5pm Cost: Adult $37, Child (5-15) $20, Concession $28, Family $95 (2 adults, 2 children) Tel: 9250 7777 www.sydneyoperahouse.com/tours
Government House
The Conservatorium of Music
The working home of the NSW Governor, the furnishings and grounds are superb. Where: Royal Botanic Gardens, Macquarie Street When: Fri-Sun 10.30am-3pm (grounds open daily, 10am-4pm) Cost: Free Tel: 9931 5222 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
This white oddity in the park was formerly the governor’s stables and is now a centre of excellence for music students. Where: Royal Botanic Gardens When: Mon-Fri, tours morning and afternoon Cost: $10 pp Tel: 9351 1382 www.sydney.edu.au
Art Gallery of NSW
Hyde Park Barracks Museum
$
Be sure to peruse the Irish Famine Victims installation outside this 1819 convict barracks. Where: Queens Square, Macquarie Street When: Daily 10am-5pm Cost: Adult $10, Child $5, Family $20 Tel: 8239 2311 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
The Mint Museum Once part of the Rum Hospital, then a military hospital and infirmary, it became the site for Sydney’s Royal Mint in 1854. Where:10 Macquarie St When: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Cost: Free Tel: 8239 2288 www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Parliament House of NSW Free tours of Australia’s first Parliament House are held on the first Thursday of each month at 1pm, or you can sit in the Visitor’s Galleries. Where: 6 Macquarie St When: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Cost: Free Tel: 9230 2111 www.parliament.nsw.gov.au 92
Hyde Park Barracks Museum (p50)
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
CENTRAL STATION
& CHINATOWN 62-63
Chinatown Night Market If you love shopping, gourmet food and live entertainment, then this is the market for you. Where: Little Hay Street & Dixon Street Mall, Haymarket When: Fri 4pm-11pm Cost: Free entry Tel: 0414 877 365 www.chinatownnightmarket.com.au
Paddy’s Markets Paddy’s is not just a market – it’s an Australian icon. Where: Hay Street, Haymarket When: Wed-Sun 9am-5pm Cost: Free entry www.paddysmarkets.com.au
Sydney Entertainment Centre Some of the best live shows you’ll see, from rock and pop to musicals. Where: 35 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour When: Show times vary, check guides Cost: Ticket prices vary, check guides Tel: 9320 4200 www.sydentcent.com.au
POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
& FISH MARKET 64-65
Powerhouse Museum Sydney’s best museum for science and technology. Where: 500 Harris Street, Ultimo When: Daily 9.30am-5pm Cost: Adult $12, Child (4-15) $6 Family (1+3 or 2+2) $30 Tel: 9217 0111 www.powerhousemuseum.com
Sydney Fish Market This bustling market is a real treat for seafood lovers, with a great range of Australian seafood. Where: Bank Street, Pyrmont When: Daily 7am-4pm. Tours: Mon, Thur, Fri at 6.40am Cost: Free. Tours: Adult $20, Child (6-13) $10 www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au
Wentworth Park Greyhounds The dogs race on Friday and Saturday nights at this inner-city track. Where: Wentworth Park Road, Glebe When: Gates open at 5.45pm Fri & 6pm Sat Cost: Adult $5.50, Child free Tel: 9649 7166 www.wentworthpark.com.au
See map p65 2
Sydney A-Z
93
DARLING
HARBOUR 67-69
Australian Maritime Museum
$
Fascinating artefacts, lively exhibitions, fun activities & even the chance to board ships. Where: 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour When: Daily 9.30am-5pm Cost: Adult $7, Child $3.50 (4-15), Family $17.50 Tel: 9298 3777 www.anmm.gov.au
Captain Cook Cruises Full range of sightseeing, dining & ferry services. Where: Pier 26 & King Street Wharf 1 When: Daily from 9.30am to 7pm Tel: 9206 1111 www.captaincook.com.au
Chinese Garden of Friendship Step into another world and experience the natural beauty, architecture and culture of China. Where: Southern end of Darling Harbour When: Daily 9.30am-5.30pm Cost: Adult $6, Child (12-) $3, Family (2+2) $15 Tel: 9240 8888 www.darlingharbour.com
Madame Tussauds Mingle and interact with the world’s most famous figures at the 13th site of this well known attraction. Where: Aquarium Pier, Next to Aquarium When: Daily 9am-8pm Cost: Adult $35, Child (4-15) $20 Family (2+2) $110 Tel: 9333 9240 www.madametussauds.com.au
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Frolic with the fish but look out for the sharks at this city-centre aquarium. When: Daily 9am-8pm Cost: Adult $35, Child $20, Family (2+2) $110 Tel: 8251 7800 www.sydneyaquarium.com.au
WILD LIFE Sydney Z00
See map p73 4
94
More than just a zoo, Wild Life Sydney features interactive displays and shows. When: Daily 9am-6pm Cost: Adult $35, Child (2+2) $110 Tel: 9333 9288 www.wildlifesydney.com.au
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
PADDINGTON
BONDI
& CENTENNIAL PARK
BEACH
Paddington Markets
Bondi Markets
Huge markets specialising in original arts, crafts, clothing and jewellery. Where: Paddington Uniting Church grounds, 395 Oxford Street, Paddington When: Sat 10am-4pm Cost: Free entry Tel: 9331 2923 www.paddingtonmarkets.com.au
These terrific markets are open every Sunday and include vintage and contemporary fashion and a farmer’s market. Where: Bondi Beach Public School, Campbell Parade, Bondi When: Sun 10am-4pm Cost: Free entry Tel: 9315 8988 www.bondimarkets.com.au
72-77
78-79
Marine Discovery Centre
Paddington Markets
Paddington Reservoir Gardens These renovated gardens include a water feature, fish pond, lawns, flower beds and shaded seating. Where: Cnr Oxford St and Oatley Rd, Paddington When: Daily 8am-6pm Cost: Free Tel: 9265 9550 www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
Take a tour of the marine life of Bondi, all in 30 minutes and without getting wet! Where: Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach When: Wed-Sun 10am-4.30pm Cost: Adult $10, Child (3-15) $5, Family (1+2) $17.50, (2+1) $22.50, extra child $2.50 Tel: 9300 0242 www.marinediscovery.org.au
North Bondi Surf School Bondi is one of the safest of Sydney beaches to learn to surf, and there are kids’ lessons too. Where: 128 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi When: Daily, depending on tides Cost: Beginners 2hr class, $99 Tel: 9365 1800 www.letsgosurfing.com.au
Centennial Parklands
The Bondi Pavilion
A world-class destination just minutes from Sydney’s CBD Where: Entrance Cnr of Oxford St and Lang Road, Paddington When: Every day Cost: Free Entry www.centennialparklands.com.au
This heritage-listed former dance hall is now a centre for art, theatre and music. Where: Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach When: Varies Cost: Varies Tel: 8362 3400 www.waverley.nsw.gov.au
Sydney A-Z
95
A-Z
QUICKFIND TOP MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
TOP SWIMMINING SPOTS
Art Gallery of NSW Australian Museum Australian N. Maritime Museum Hyde Park Barracks Museum Justice & Police Museum Museum of Contemporary Art Museum of Sydney Powerhouse Museum Susannah Place Museum Sydney Jewish Museum Sydney Mint Museum The Rocks Discovery Museum
Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Cook & Phillip Aquatic Centre Redleaf Pool, Double Bay
60 54 68 60 44 44 44 64 44 56 60 44
TOP ATTRACTIONS Anzac War Memorial Chinese Garden of Friendship Elizabeth Bay House Government House Conservatorium of Music Madame Tussauds Marine Discovery Centre Parliament House of NSW Queen Victoria Building (QVB) St Mary’s Cathedral State Library of NSW SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Sydney Fish Market Sydney Observatory Sydney Opera House Sydney Town Hall Sydney Tower Eye The Star (casino) WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
52 68 56 60 60 68 68 60 52 54 60 68 64 44 60 52 52 68 68
TOP PARKS Centennial Parklands Hyde Park, city Lyne Park, Rose Bay Paddington Reservoir Gardens
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74 52 82 77
TOP MARKETS Bondi Markets Chinatown Night Markets Glebe Markets Kings Cross Sunday Markets Paddington Markets Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets The Rocks Markets The Rocks Foodies Markets
78 62 64 56 72 62 44 44
TOP PRECINCTS Bondi 78 Circular Quay 43 City Centre 52 City East 55 Chinatown 62 Darling Harbour 67 Double Bay 85 Kings Cross 56 Paddington 73 Rose Bay 83 The Rocks 43 Woolloomooloo 57
TOP THINGS TO DO Bondi to Bronte walk Bridgeclimb Historical Walking Tours North Bondi Surf School Pylon Lookout Sydney Light Rail The Rocks Walking Tour The Rocks Ghost Tour
60 54 84
80 44 52 78 44 64 44 44
The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney
Sydney’s favourite PLAYGROUND. Home to over 60 restaurants, 21 bars and some of Sydney’s most-loved museums and theatres, plus the city’s biggest free children’s playground, Darling Harbour is all about the wow-factor. Plan a fun day of family entertainment, impress your date with world-class dining, or enjoy a fabulous night out with friends at Sydney’s favourite waterside destination.
DISCOUNT VOUCHERS $ GREAT OFFERS to help you to see more... for less!
FREE WI-FI
SYDNEY VISITOR CENTRES Present this voucher for COMPLIMENTARY INTERNET USAGE at The Rocks Visitor Centre only.
Valid for use at the Sydney Visitor Centre in The Rocks only. Offer until 31/1/2016.
50% OFF
SYDNEY MUSEUMS PASS Buy the Sydney Museums Pass and SAVE OVER 50% on admission at 4 great city Museums. See Inside Front Cover for more information.
Adult $18, Child/Concession $9. Pass valid for one year and allows single entry at each museum.
2 1 FOR
MEALS
FORTUNE OF WAR HOTEL BUY ONE MEAL GET ONE FREE!!! (equal or lesser value)
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday... lunch & dinner from 12pm - 9pm.
Available for lunch and dinner - Mon, Tues & Wed (excludes public holidays & main event days). Valid until 31/1/2016.
30%
ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES Receive 30% off for purchases of $1000 or more.
OFF Excludes items on sale and artworks by deceased and collectable artists. Valid to 31/1/2016.
$10 OFF
AUSTRALIAN OPAL CUTTERS Present this voucher and GET $10 off the best Opals and Opal jewellery when you spend $30 or more.
Not valid with any other offer or voucher. One voucher per purchase. Discount applies on ticket price only. Not redeemable for cash.
20% OFF
SYDNEY ESCAPE HUNT Global phenomenon offering exhilarating FUN! Present this coupon and receive 20% OFF the price of this exciting new attraction!
Book online and use code SYDEXP20 to receive EXTRA 10% OFF the price. Valid until 31/1/2016.
DISCOUNT VOUCHERS
CONDITIONS
OF USE
All offers are redeemable on presentation of the particular voucher and cannot be used in conjuction with any other offer. Valid for one entry or service only, subject to availability.
FREE WI-FI
$ Explorer Bus Stop
SYDNEY VISITOR CENTRES
23
Stop by the Sydney Visitor Centres for face-to-face Map p45 visitor information and comprehensive booking service for tours, attractions, transport and accommodation in Sydney and beyond. The Rocks Cnr Argyle & Playfair Streets Tel: 8273 0000
Valid for use at the Sydney Visitor Centre in The Rocks only. Offer until 31/1/2016.
50% OFF
SYDNEY MUSEUMS PASS
Explorer Bus Stop
Available at Museum of Sydney, Hyde Park Barracks Museum, Justice & Police Museum, Susannah Place Museum (see Inside Front Cover).
1
9 11 24 Map p45 & p61
www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au
Adult $18, Child/Concession $9. Pass valid for one year and allows single entry at each museum.
2 1
FORTUNE OF WAR HOTEL
MEALS
137 George Sreet, The Rocks Tel: 9247 2714 www.fortuneofwar.com.au
FOR
Explorer Bus Stop
24
Make sure to visit Sydney’s oldest pub (1828) and heritage-listed bar with 15 beers on tap and great food at great prices, from $7 - $25.
Map p45 3
This offer is available for lunch and dinner - Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday (excludes public holidays & main event days). Valid until 31/1/2016.
30% OFF
ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES Make sure to take home a beautiful piece of Australia.
Explorer Bus Stop
1
8
Map p45 5 Map p53 5
Opera Quays - Shop 13, 2 East Circular Quay QVB - Shop 47-51, Level 2 Tel: 1300 385 862 www.aboriginalartgalleries.com.au
Excludes items on sale and artworks by deceased and collectable artists. Valid to 31/1/2016.
FREE LESSON
AUSTRALIAN OPAL CUTTERS FREE OPAL DISCOVERY LESSON & workshop Discover the secrets of opals at Australian Opal Cutters.
Explorer Bus Stop
3
C
Map p53 8
3rd Floor, 295-301 Pitt street, Sydney Tel: 9261 2442 www.australianopalcutters.com
Not valid with any other offer or voucher. One voucher per person per day.
20% OFF
SYDNEY ESCAPE HUNT
Explorer Bus Stop
2
Map p53 4
As a team of famous detectives in historical Sydney find clues and crack codes to solve the crime and escape in 60mins!
Level 4, 393 George Street, Sydney | Daily 10am - 8:30pm (bookings essential) Cost: from $36/person (min 2 people - online price includes EXTRA 10% OFF) Tel: 9299 3929 www.sydney.escapehunt.com
Not valid with any other offer or voucher. One voucher per person per day.
$40 OFF
OPERA AT THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE Present at Sydney Opera House Box Office for $40 OFF tickets for the summer opera season when purchasing one or more full standard adult tickets.
Excludes E & F Reserve. Valid for performances until 23/3/16 excluding NYE and Great Opera Hits.
20% OFF
THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM Present this coupon and receive 20% OFF the price of GENERAL ADMISSION to the Australian Museum.
Not valid with any other offer, extra charges apply to special temporary exhibitions. Valid until 31/1/2016.
2 1 FOR
SYDNEY JEWISH MUSEUM Receive 2 for 1 General Museum Admission.
ENTRY Discount valid for Adult, Concession or Family passes. Not valid for special events. Valid until 31/1/2016.
2 1 FOR
ELIZABETH BAY HOUSE Receive 2 for 1 General Museum Admission.
ENTRY *Not vaild with any other offer. Valid to 31/1/2016.
FREE GLASS OF WINE
NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM Complimentary glass of wine with any main meal purchase at Yots Café. Open 9.30am to 5pm daily.
Present voucher to receive offer. Valid until 31/1/2016. Limit one per person.
20% OFF
SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM Present this coupon for 20% off a Glass Bottom Boat ride at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Check website for available ride times.
Not valid with any other offer. Voucher holds no cash value and is not for resale.
2
BEN & JERRY’S BONDI
SCOOPS
FOR 1
Get 2 scoops for the price of 1, served in the same cup or cone. Enjoy some delicious ice cream at beautiful Bondi Beach Also accepted at Manly.
Not valid with any other offer. Coupon valid for up to 2 people. 2 Scoops to be in the same Dipped Waffle Cone. Valid until 31/1/2016.
$25
NORTH BONDI RSL CLUB Present this coupon to receive a 2 course meal including drink for ONLY $25!
LUNCH DEAL This offer is available Monday-Friday, 12midday to 4pm. Valid until 31/1/2016.
$40 OFF
Explorer Bus Stop
OPERA AT THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE Experience an opera performance that’s unlike anywhere else in the world! Dress up, have a glass of champagne looking over the harbour and enjoy an exciting performance in the Joan Sutherland Theatre.
8
Map p61 1
Sydney Opera House Tel: 9318 8200 www.opera.org.au
Excludes E & F Reserve. Valid for performances until 23/3/16 excluding NYE and Great Opera Hits.
20% OFF
Explorer Bus Stop
THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
3
Map p55 1 This is the best place to find out about Australia. Discover Australia’s natural environment and indigenous cultures in one of the finest natural history museums in the world. 6 College Street, Sydney. Open daily 9.30am – 5pm Tel: 9320 6000 www.australianmuseum.net.au
Not valid with any other offer, extra charges apply to special temporary exhibitions. Valid 31/1/2016.
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SYDNEY JEWISH MUSEUM
ENTRY
148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst Tel: 9360 7999 www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
FOR
Explorer Bus Stop
Displays Holocaust artefacts and memorabilia, illustrates the depth of the Jewish religion, tradition and culture, and the contribution of Jews to Australia.
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Map p57 1
Certificate of Excellence 2012
Discount valid for Adult, Concession or Family passes. Not valid for special events. Valid until 31/1/2016.
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ELIZABETH BAY HOUSE
ENTRY
7 Onslow Avenue, Elizabeth Bay (10 minute walk from Kings Cross station) Open Fri – Sun, 11am – 4pm
FOR
Explorer Bus Stop
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Map p57 3 Visit historic Elizabeth Bay House. With its luxurious furnishings and magnificent sweeping staircase, it was once considered the ‘finest house in the colony’.
Not vaild with any other offer. Valid to 31/1/2016.
FREE
NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
GLASS OF WINE
2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour Tel: 9298 3777 www.anmm.gov.au
Overlooking the spectacular Sydney Harbour and city skyline, Yots Café is open for breakfast and lunch
Explorer Bus Stop
16
Map p69 2
Present voucher to receive offer. Valid until 31/1/2016. Limit one per person.
20%
Feed the fish on the Glass Bottom Boat ride or take your experience to the next level, at 11am the tour feeds the bigger fish and four different species of sharks!
OFF
Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour www.sydneyaquarium.com.au
SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM
Explorer Bus Stop
19
Map p69 8
Present this voucher at Admissions Desk to receive 20% off a Glass Bottom Boat ride. Valid through 31/1/16. Promo code: 2133
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BEN & JERRY’S BONDI
SCOOPS
FOR 1
Get 2 scoops for the price of 1, served in the same cup or cone. Enjoy some delicious ice cream at beautiful Bondi Beach (also accepted at Manly)
Explorer Bus Stop
G
Map p79
138 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach Tel: 8014 8573 www.benandjerry.com.au
Not valid with any other offer. Coupon valid for up to 2 people. 2 Scoops to be in the same Dipped Waffle Cone. Valid until 31/1/16.
$25 LUNCH DEAL
NORTH BONDI RSL CLUB Lunch with the best view of Bondi and beyond. Great food and a relaxed atmosphere where locals and visitors are welcome. 118-120 Ramsgate Avenue, North Bondi Tel: 9130 3152 www.northbondirsl.com.au
This offer is available Monday-Friday, 12midday to 4pm. Valid until 31/1/2016.
Explorer Bus Stop
H
Map p79 6