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to Sydney,

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TR A

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OFFICIAL

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ER’S COMPA NI ELL AV COMPAN R’ S IO E LL E V

MMMillington-Wallace Millington-Wallace Managing Director Managing Director Sydney & Bondi Explorer Sydney and Bondi Explorer Welcome to Sydney

Welcome to Sydney

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TRAVELLER’S COMPANION

TABLE OF

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See pages 48-49

What’s On In Sydney From festivals to world class performances, Sydney has it all!

Sydney at a Glance Getting your bearings, and our top tips to seeing even more.

Dining Out

FAST TRACK

TICKETS

ON BOARD

SYDNEY EXPLORER

See pages 38-39

Find out more about the best places to eat out, or where to simply enjoy a glass... or two!

Welcome Aboard How to get the best from your day out with Sydney’s only ‘Hop on, Hop off’ bus service!

The Sydney Tour

Get ready to see all the major sights and attractions in the city...

Proudly produced in Australia by the Smiley Ad Co PO Box 1980 Maroubra NSW 2035 Tel: 02 9567 8400

Circular Quay & The Rocks

City Centre

Museum & William Street

Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo

Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens

Central Station & Chinatown

Powerhouse Museum & Fish Market

Darling Harbour

The Bondi & Bays Tour

Head east to famous Bondi Beach and some of our other well known beach suburbs... Advertising enquiries: 02 8090 3490 Design: Carol Vieira Meraki Agency Copyright: The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney©2015 Cover photograph: Shutterstock.com Photos courtesy of Destination NSW and Tourism Australia.

Paddington & Centennial Park

Bondi Beach

Rose Bay

Double Bay

Sydney A-Z

A complete list of everything you need to know.

Please note: Whilst every care has been taken, some information in the Traveller’s Companion may have changed since its publication. Readers are advised to verify prices and times prior to visiting or using any of the attractions or services mentioned in this Guide. Every effort has been made to trace ownership of copyright material. Smiley Ad Co welcomes any information from people who believe they own copyright material used in the Guide.

Contents

WHAT’S ON

IN SYDNEY

SYDNEY

HIGHLIGHTS Sydney offers decadent delights during the cooler months. From fabulous food & festivals to theatre, music & sport, there’s a cultural feast you are sure to enjoy.

The Rocks Aroma Festival

Sydney Spring Racing Carnival

Indulge in coffee, tea and gourmet chocolates at this decadent festival.

Trot into Randwick for the glamour and thrills of horse racing at its finest.

When: 26 July Where: The Rocks Cost: free www.therocks.com

When: 5 September–3 November Where: Royal Randwick Racecourse Cost: $25–$50 www.australianturfclub.com.au

Bledisloe Cup

Art and About Sydney

Age old footy rivalry! Watch the Auckland match at a local pub for great atmosphere.

Sydney streets, laneways and buildings are adorned with art in this festival.

When: 8 & 15 August Where: 8 August in Sydney, 15 August in Auckland Cost: from $15 www.rugby.com.au/wallabies/home

The Sun–Herald City2Surf

When: 18 September–11 October Where: various locations Cost: free www.artandabout.com.au

Blackmores Sydney Running Festival

Join Sydneysiders on this classic 14km run from the city to Bondi Beach.

Walk, run or jog around spectacular Sydney Harbour to the beat of live music.

When: 9 August Where: City to Bondi Beach Cost: entrants $15–$85, spectators free www.city2surf.com.au

When: 20 September Where: various locations Cost: from $25 (children under 5 free) www.sydneyrunningfestival.com.au

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: from 22 October Where: Bondi to Tamarama Beach Coastal Walk Cost: free www.sculpturebythesea.com Sculpture by the Sea

Sydney Night Noodle Markets Sydney’s largest night market serves up delicious and authentic Asian cuisine. When: 8–25 October Where: Hyde Park Cost: free www.goodfoodmonth.com

Manly Jazz Find your groove with a beachside weekend of great jazz and fabulous food. When: 25 September–5 October Where: Manly Beach Cost: free www.manly.nsw.gov.au

Darling Harbour Fiesta Latin America serves up a fiery festival of music, dance, food and culture.

The Rocks Aroma Festival

When: 1–31 October Where: Darling Harbour Cost: free www.darlingharbour.com

The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Month Treat your taste buds and relish sumptuous feasts from celebrity chefs. When: 1–31 October Where: various locations Cost: free and ticketed events www.goodfoodmonth.com

Bledisloe Cup

NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final Watch Australia’s toughest rugby players do battle on the field for ultimate glory. When: 4 October Where: ANZ Stadium Cost: TBA or watch at your local pub www.nrl.com

Sydney Spring Racing Carnival

What’s On

WHAT’S ON

ON THE

STAGE

Les Misérables - musical This box office blockbuster shifts from screen to stage in a musical spectacular. When: Strictly Limited Season Where: Capitol Theatre Cost: from $55 www.lesmis.com

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: 7pm Tuesdays Where: The Basement Cost: $8 www.thebasement.com.au

Detroit - play The illusions of a family’s idyllic suburban lifestyle are shattered in this feisty comedy. When: until 16 August Where: Darlinghurst Theatre Company Cost: $30-$45 www.darlinghursttheatre.com

The Bleeding Tree

- play

High Society - musical The Broadway hit is reinvented in an all singing, all dancing stage spectacular! When: 4–26 September Where: Hayes Theatre Co Cost: $59–$99 www.hayestheatre.com.au

Ivanov - play Playwright Anton Chekhov wryly examines the meaning of life and money. When: from 19 September Where: Belvoir Street Theatre Cost: $39–$72 www.belvoir.com.au

Julia Morris — I Don’t Want Your Honest Feedback - stand up comedy

A dark thriller set against a backdrop of the harsh Australian outback.

One of Australia’s most popular comedians brings her new show to the stage.

When: 31 July–5 September Where: Griffin Theatre Company Cost: $35-$55 www.griffintheatre.com.au

When: 25–26 September Where: State Theatre Cost: $59.90 www.statetheatre.com.au

Seventeen - play

Triptych - contemporary dance

Barry Otto, Peter Carroll and Maggie Dence lead an all star comedic cast.

Three exquisite dance pieces with live vocals from the illustrious Katie Noonan.

When: 1 August–13 September Where: Belvoir Street Theatre Cost: $39-$72 www.belvoir.com.au

When: 25 September–10 October Where: Walsh Bay Cost: $30-$75 www.sydneydancecompany.com

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

WHAT’S ON

Les Misérables An amazing classic now on Capitol Theatre

SYDNEY

OPERA HOUSE Ghost Stories

The smash hit West End play is now re-invented, re-designed and reborn for its Australian debut. When: until 15 August Cost: $75 - $85

Don Carlos Verdi’s music masterfully controls this twisting and turning story to great effect. When: until 15 August Cost: from $69

Turandot Puccini’s opera about a brutal princess and an impossibly brave suitor who will make any sacrifice to win her love! When: until 28 August Cost: from $69

The Marriage of Figaro

Swan Lake - ballet The Russian National Ballet presents this timeless dance of love and heartbreak. When: 6 October Where: Seymour Centre Cost: $52.60–$72.60 www.seymourcentre.com

A Rabbit for Kim Jong–Il

The Tempest A superb cast & setting captures the lightness and beauty of one of Shakespeare’s last and greatest works. When: 19 August-18 September Cost: $75 - $79

- play

A comic thriller about greed, betrayal, politics and rabbits! When: from 10 October Where: Griffin Theatre Company Cost: $35–$55 www.griffintheatre.com.au

The Wharf Revue 2015 - play The political satire is back with sidesplitting laughs, songs and mayhem. When: from 20 October Where: Walsh Bay Cost: from $48 www.sydneytheatre.com.au

Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games - dance Michael Flatley’s phenomenal Irish dancing troupe taps onto the Sydney stage. When: 20–25 October Where: Capitol Theatre Cost: from $81.26 www.capitoltheatre.com.au

Mozart’s classic comedy has been entertaining crowds for centuries, and it’s not hard to understand why! When: 6-29 August Cost: from $69

Anything Goes This hilarious tale includes some of musical theatre’s most memorable songs including You’re The Top, I Get A Kick Out Of You and Anything Goes.  When: 8 September-4 October Cost: $59.90 - $199.90

Toni Braxton - Live Listen to why this talented musician has earned seven Grammy Awards and sold over 66 million records worldwide. When: 13 September Cost: $89 - $169

Carnival Of The Animals The Circa Carnival comes to town with whimsical tales of the many wondrous worlds of the animal kingdom. When: 19 Sept-4 Oct Cost: $39-$49

Velvet This show is for everyone who remembers the world of disco and those who are yet to discover it! When: 6 October-1 November Cost: $89

For more events…

www.sydneyoperahouse.com

What’s On

WHAT’S ON

EXHIBITIONIST

SYDNEY

Notorious Criminals: A Snapshot of Sinister Sydney Stories from Sydney’s underbelly of notorious criminals from the 1860s–1990s. When: ongoing Where: Justice and Police Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

Pacific Spirit Extraordinary cultural treasures and artefacts from the Pacific nations. When: ongoing Where: Australian Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.australianmuseum.net.au

Signs of Life—Letters of the Holocaust Intimate letters between loved ones will forever bear witness to this dark time. When: ongoing Where: Sydney Jewish Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneyjewishmuseum.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

Susannah Place Museum’s Corner Shop Step back in time to 1915 Sydney and peruse the authentic goods and wares on offer.

Notorious Criminals - J. F. Hayes

Convict Sydney Explore Sydney’s convict history at this UNESCO World Heritage Listed site When: ongoing Where: Hyde Park Barracks Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

Engineering Excellence Discover engineering marvels which have put Australia on the world technology stage. When: ongoing Where: Powerhouse Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.powerhousemuseum.com

When: ongoing Where: Susannah Place Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

X–Ray Vision The Smithsonian Travelling Exhibition presents the evolution of fish through photographs. When: ongoing Where: Australian National Maritime Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.anmm.gov.au

Artbar Enjoy drinks and canapés against a backdrop of art, music and performance. When: last Friday of every month Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Cost: $20 www.mca.com.au

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

WHAT’S ON

Superhouse: architecture & interiors beyond the everyday Explore some of the world’s most daring homes and inspiring interiors.

FAMILY

FUN

When: until 29 November Where: Museum of Sydney Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

3-D Space Theatre Budding astronomers can experience the thrills of life as an astronaut! When: ongoing Where: Sydney Observatory Cost: $4–$50 www.sydneyobservatory.com.au

Experimentations Superhouse: architecture & interiors beyond the everyday

Brett Whiteley: sculpture Sculptures by an iconic Australian artist explore the free flowing forms in nature. When: until 13 September Where: Brett Whiteley Studio Cost: free www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/brett whiteley-studio

Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes Australia’s most prestigious portrait and landscape painting prizes. When: until 27 September Where: Art Gallery NSW Cost: $8-$12 www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au

The Great War—Through the lens of Harold Collins Poignant images and diary extracts from serviceman Harold Collins during WWI. When: until end September Where: Sydney Jewish Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au

Julia Margaret Cameron Over 100 photographs span the amazing career of a great portrait artist. When: 14 August–25 October Where: Art Gallery NSW Cost: $7–$28, children under 5 free www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au

Curious kids will have their questions answered at this interactive exhibition. When: ongoing Where: Powerhouse Museum Cost: included in entry fee www.maas.museum

Matilda The Musical This classic children’s book is brought to the stage in a musical spectacular. When: 28 July–25 October Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre Cost: from $65 www.sydneylyric.com.au

Tubby the Tuba—Babies’ Proms Join Tubby the Tuba on his musical adventure as he searches for his melody. When: 5–16 August Where: Sydney Opera House Cost: from $20 www.sydneyoperahouse.com

Science in the Swamp There’ll be live animals and science experiments but watch out for the roaming dinosaur! When: 15 August Where: Centennial Park Cost: free www.centennialparklands.com.au

Festival of the Winds You’ll be blown away with exciting rides, dance classes, shows and kite flying! When: 13 September Where: Bondi Beach Cost: free www.waverley.nsw.gov.au

What’s On

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

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

GETTING YOUR BEARINGS

TOPTIP

A great way to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening in Sydney is through the Guest TV channel in many city hotels.

el chann

Guest TV

Getting Your Bearings

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)

The Official Travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Opera at the Sydney Opera House

24 June-29 August Turandot La Traviata Don Carlos The Marriage of Figaro

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

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 p19, 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).

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

Discover Sydney & Bondi with Sydney’s only Hop On - Hop Off Tourist Bus Service

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 Contemporary Art

Experience cutting edge art, engaging exhibitions and innovative performances at a spectacular harbourside location. | www.mca.com.au

7. Museum of Sydney

Archaeological remains from colonial Sydney are revealed alongside Sydney’s fascinating Indigenous history. | www.sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

Museum of Sydney

8. Powerhouse Museum

Planes, trains and space shuttles are just some of the 500,000 treasures waiting for you here! www.maas.museum/powerhouse-museum

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

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’).

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 (see pgs72-73) Home to some of Sydney’s best watering 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 Beach Road are brimming with eateries, while one block back from the beach Gould Street serves up organic offerings and hole-in-the-wall cafes.

Dining Out

DINING OUT

LOVE DINING,

LOVE

TOP

FIVES

THE STAR

...Hidden Cafes

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 The addition of a wood-fired grill to Stefano Manfredi’s Italian kitchen reflects his dedication to delivering truly authentic cuisine.

1. La Renaissance Café Pâtisserie 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

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

...Hidden Bars 1. Palmer & Co bercrombie Lane (between George A and Pitt Streets), Sydney www.merivale.com.au/palmerandco

2. Grasshopper 1 Temperance Lane (off George Street), Sydney www.thegrasshopper.com.au

3. The Baxter Inn 152–156 Clarence Street (basement level, entry via back lane), Sydney www.thebaxterinn.com

4. Eau De Vie 229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst www.eaudevie.com.au/Sydney

5.White Revolver Corner Curlewis Street and Campbell Parade (basement of the Swiss Grand Hotel), Bondi www.relove.com.au

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

Contemporary INDIAN food, BEAUTIFULLY presented, with stunning HARBOUR VIEWS.

Winner of the prestigious ’Best Indian’ award by the Restaurant and Catering Association two years in a row, Zaaffran is a very special culinary experience. Recommended by Australian Gourmet Traveller, Sydney Morning Herald, Lonely Planet, The Times of India and many more leading publications.

OPEN 7 DAYS FOR LUNCH AND DINNER - FULLY LICENSED - DISCOUNT PARKING

Level 2 Harbourside Centre, 10 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour 02 9211 8900 | www.zaaffran.com See map p69 2

10am- 2pm

See map p53 6

Dining Out

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

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

See map p63 2

See map p53 2

Dining Out

LIVE MUSIC

ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday - Friday - Saturday - Sunday Dan Sharkey, Glenn Esmond, Lance Link, Rosco & Gene, Ted Nash

DRINK AND DINE

First Fleet Bistro

Open for lunch and dinner 7 days. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Meals and Daily Specials available.

137 George Street, The Rocks www.fortuneofwar.com.au

9247 2714

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 Asian Delima Restaurant Umi Kaiten-Zushi Niji Chinese East Ocean The Emperor’s Choice House of Guangzhou Red Chilli Sichuan Restaurant European Adria Bar Restaurant Gelato Bar French The Little Snail German Bavarian Bier Cafe Lowenbrau Bar Brasserie Indian Zaaffran Italian Beppi’s Ristorante Limoncello Ristorante Lucio’s Italian Restaurant Otto Ristorante Korean BBQ City Restaurant Kosher Pita Mix Twenty One Modern Australian Botanic Gardens Restaurant Captain Cook Cruises Catalina Fortune of War Hyde Park Barracks Cafe Icebergs The Governor’s Table Bar & Dining Opera Bar Pink Salt Ravesi’s Sydney Dance Lounge Ribs, Tapas n’ Stuff! Hurricane’s Bar & Grill Sgt. Sam’s Stacks Taverna Seafood Bondi Surf Seafoods Nick’s Seafood Restaurant The Sailors Club Steaks Hurricane’s Bar & Grill I’m Angus Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse Thai Blue Monkey Thai Thai Princess Vietnamese La Mint

Area

Page

Map

Chinatown Haymarket Double Bay

63 63 85

Chinatown City Chinatown Chinatown

63 27 63 27

63 53 63 63

Darling Harbour Bondi

69 79

Darling Harbour

Bondi The Rocks

81 45

79 45

Darling Harbour

East Sydney Double Bay Paddington Woolloomooloo

55 85 73 57

City

Rose Bay Double Bay

83 85

Botanic Gardens Sydney Harbour Rose Bay The Rocks City Bondi City Opera House Double Bay Bondi Walsh Bay

61 32 83 28 61 79 53 61 85 79 45

Bondi Kings Cross Darling Harbour

81 57 69

79 57 69

Bondi Darling Harbour Rose Bay

79 69 83

Bondi Darling Harbour City

81 69 53

79 69 53

Rose Bay East Sydney

83 55

East Sydney

Dining Out

61 45, 69 83 45 61 79 53 61 85 79 45

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)

Balmoral

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

Bay

ATHOL Bay

Kirribilli

King St King Wharf Wharf

OUR HARB

Balmain

Kurraba Point

Milsons Point

Goat Island ING DARL

Balmain Balmain West

Bay

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

Middle Head

South

South Head

OBELISK Bay

PACIFIC

Fas t Fe

Chowder Bay

Watsons Bay

Ma nly

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

Captain Cook Cruises - Hop On Hop Off Coogee

AROUND THE

HARBOUR Sydney is rightly proud of its dazzling harbour and there is so much to do and see. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 ($9 single, $18 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

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.

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

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

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.

TOUR 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

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. With a twice daily departure during Whale Watching season Fantasea will whisk you out of ‘the heads’ to watch the humpbacks make their annual migration. Enjoy the stunning views of Sydney Harbour with a 2 hour Coffee Cruise or 75 minute Harbour Highlights Cruise. Both Cruises offer an informative commentary. 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 Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre See pages 51-53

Museum & William Street Australian natural history mingles with contemporary food See pages 54-55

Kings Cross & Woolloomooloo Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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 Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 24 25 26

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

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

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY 1

Sydney Visitor Centre (Information & Bookings)

2 5

 6

5 3

Aboriginal Art Galleries (pg 90)

Fortune of War 2 for 1 (pg 28)

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

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 31/10/2015.

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 31/10/2015.

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 31/10/15.

$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.

FREE GIFT

AUSTRALIAN PEARL DIVERS Present this voucher for FREE PEARL EARRINGS when you spend $30 or more – Pure Pearl™ Stud Earrings set in Sterling Silver.

Not valid with any other offer or voucher. One voucher per purchase & per person.

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

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 31/10/2015.

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 11 13 26 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

Make sure to visit Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 31/10/2015.

30% OFF

ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES Make sure to take home a beautiful piece of Australia.

Explorer Bus Stop

3 10

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 31/10/2015.

FREE LESSON

AUSTRALIAN OPAL CUTTERS FREE OPAL DISCOVERY LESSON & workshop Discover the secrets of opals at Australian Opal Cutters.

Explorer Bus Stop

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.

FREE

AUSTRALIAN PEARL DIVERS

LESSON

3rd Floor, 295-301 Pitt street, Sydney Tel: 9261 2442 www.australianopalcutters.com

FREE PEARL DISCOVERY LESSON Discover the mysteries of pearls at Australian Pearl Divers.

Not valid with any other offer or voucher. One voucher per purchase & per person.

Explorer Bus Stop

Map p53 8

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 31/10/2015

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 31/10/2015.

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 31/10/2015.

2 1 FOR

ELIZABETH BAY HOUSE Receive 2 for 1 General Museum Admission.

ENTRY *Not vaild with any other offer. Valid to 31/10/2015.

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 31/10/2015. 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.

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 31/10/2015.

25% OFF

AIRPORT EXCESS LUGGAGE Save on multiple item purchases, $25.00 off any 2nd item of equal or lesser size. Promo Code: 2nd.

Only one code per order. Please use promo code at checkout to receive discount offer. Valid until 31/10/2015.

20% OFF

Explorer Bus Stop

SYDNEY ESCAPE HUNT

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.

20% OFF

THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM

Explorer Bus Stop

14 K

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 31/10/2015.

2 1

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.

Map p57 1

Certificate of Excellence 2012

Discount valid for Adult, Concession or Family passes. Not valid for special events. Valid until 31/10/2015.

2 1

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

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 31/10/2015.

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

Map p69 2

Present voucher to receive offer. Valid until 31/10/2015. 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

Map p69 8

Present this voucher at Admissions Desk to receive 20% off a Glass Bottom Boat ride. Valid through 31/10/15. Promo code: 2133

Explorer Bus Stop

Get 2 scoops for the price of 1, served in the same cup or Map p79 cone. Enjoy some delicious ice cream at beautiful Bondi Beach (also accepted at Manly)



BEN & JERRY’S BONDI

SCOOPS

FOR 1

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 31/10/15.

FREE BOXES

AIRPORT EXCESS LUGGAGE We will deliver FREE empty boxes to your pickup address (2 business days notice required on any Order). Promo Code: Boxes www.airportexcessluggage.com Tel: 8914 9903 (Australia wide pickups) SMS/Mobile: 0410 649 164

Only one code per Order. Please use promo code at checkout to receive discount offer. Valid until 31/10/15.

Get the Paddy’s App Available now on APP store & Google Play

FLEMINGTON

HAYMARKET 9-13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW 10.00AM-6.00PM WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY & PUBLIC HOLIDAY MONDAYS

Austin Ave, Homebush West NSW

FRIDAY 10.00AM-4.30PM SATURDAY FRESH FOOD 6.00AM-2.00PM SUNDAY 9.00AM-4.30PM

PADDYSMARKETS.COM.AU /PADDYSMARKETS

@PADDYSMARKETS

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

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

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 46-48).

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). 56

Sydney Town Hall, George Street

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

CITY CENTRE

Escape Hunt (pg 89)

3 4

Australian Opal Cutters (pg 46-48)

9 6

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 (see p27) 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 (see p25) Shop 5, 519 Old South Head Road Tel: 9371 8259

City Centre

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 58

St Mary’s Cathedral

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

HOP OFF Stops

6 14

MUSEUM & WILLIAM STREET

Australian Museum (pg 91)



4 1

5 6 4



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

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 60

Sydney Jewish Museum

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

HOP ON

HOP OFF Stops

KINGS CROSS & WOOLLOOMOOLOO

5 1

Elizabeth Bay House

4 2

  2

4 1

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 Reinvents the flavours of Italy in stylish new forms Area 8, 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo Tel: 9368 7488

2 Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel Heritage-listed beauty with smashing ambience and views 2 Bourke Street, Woolloomooloo Tel: 9332 1227

 LOCAL FAVOURITE

3 Piccolo Bar Fabulous Italian food and homemade cakes 6 Roslyn Street, Kings Cross Tel: 9368 1356

4 Sgt. Sam’s A Sydney favourite famed for its flamed grill Ribs & Chicken! Ward Ave, Kings Cross Tel: 9331 8880

 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

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the perfect way to spend to your day at the Sydney Opera House.

BOOK YOUR TOUR ONLINE TO SAVE 10%

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

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.

10 11 12

CROWNING GLORY 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

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

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

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE & ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS

Sydney Opera House (pg 58)

1 1 2

10 3

5 6 9

7 8

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

2 Botanic Gardens Restaurant Open-air dining in exquisite garden surroundings Mrs Macquaries Road Tel: 9241 2419

Just outside the Palace Gate off Macquarie Street, this popular kiosk is open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9:30am-4:30pm

4 Hyde Park Barracks Cafe Magnificent cafe in this World Heritage listed building Queens Square Tel: 9222 1815

Sydney Opera House & Royal Botanic Gardens

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 (p93)

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 66

Paddy’s Market

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

HOP ON

HOP OFF Stops

15 A

CENTRAL STATION & CHINATOWN

1 2

2 4



3 2

1 4

 6

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 p27). 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

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 68

Glebe Markets

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

HOP ON

HOP OFF Stops

16 17

POWERHOUSE MUSEUM & FISH MARKET

 1 2

Check out the inner suburbs with Sydney ‘s Light Rail

4 1



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

DARLING HARBOUR

THE BEAUTIFUL

HOP ON

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.

18 19 20

DARLING HARBOUR 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

21 22 23

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

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 pg19)

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.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

DARLING HARBOUR

Fast Track Tickets (see p38-39)

Australian National Maritime Museum

Captain Cook Cruises (see p32)

10 9

3 4 2

6 5 4

Sydney Visitor Centre (Information & Bookings)

3 5

Maritime Museum

Free Glass of Wine DISCOUNT VOUCHER

Hog’s Breath Café Pyrmont 45% Off

DISCOUNT VOUCHER

SEA LIFE Aquarium

20% Off Boat Ride DISCOUNT VOUCHER

OUR TOP

DINING TIPS 1 The Little Snail Sensational escargot in superb surrounds 50 Murray Street Tel: 9212 7512

2 Zaaffran One of the best indian restaurants with waterfront views (see p25) 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

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

The Official Travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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)

Paddington Markets

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

G LE

GLENM

RY DA RD

E N MO R E

6 4

IA M LL

4 MO O

RE P

ARK

Paddington Reservoir Gardens



O RMOND ST

Five Ways

CASCADE ST

ST IA OR CT VI ST

IFF

PADDINGTON

Victoria Barracks

ORE R

Paddington Markets

OCEAN

SOUTH DOWLING

NMORE RD

LAC MC

VICTOR

NV BO

NING RD

GLE

RUSHCUTTERS BAY M AN

IA ST

HLA N AV E NEILD AV E

PADDINGTON & CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS

A LIZ

JERSE

Centennial Park (see p74-77)

Y ST



AN ZA CP AR

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

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

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

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

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 worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

HOP ON

HOP OFF Stops

G H

BONDI BEACH

ST ON

BOND

Bondi 1

I RD

NORTH BONDI



R GS ON Bondi AM PD SG BO Markets E AT

EL W

LIN

Ben & Jerry’s (2 scoops for 1)

Hurricane’s Bar & Grill (p81)

O’BRIEN ST

BLAIR ST

RY R D

BONDI BEACH

ITA

O’DON NELL S T OAKLEY ST

Bondi Pavilion

D H

North Bondi Surf School

The landmark Bondi Pavilion

BONDI BAY

Baths

TAMARAMA PARK

Bondi to MARKS PARK Bronte Walk (see pg 80)

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 Icebergs

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

The vibe, like the music, is chilled and relaxed 1 Notts Avenue Tel: 9365 9000

 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

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 Ravesiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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.

The Official Travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

The Official Travellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Companion to Sydney

Stops

ROSE BAY

N PE

ON ILT

LE ST



Y AV E

’S

O LI UL

V AN R D

BALFOUR R D

ROSE BAY

KENT RD

VE MANLO N A

DANGAR OVAL

E I

L AR

NEWCAST

IC H



O WS

LYNE PARK

Ferry to Watsons Bay

EIGH A

FERNL

ROSE BAY

ONSLO

CHALE WOOLLAHRA FIELDS

W ST

YER S

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

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

Double Bay Nightlife

The Official Traveller’s Companion to Sydney

L I NG POINT RD

DOUBLE BAY

Redleaf Pool

D RD

N E W SOUTH

DOUBLE BAY

DOUBLE BAY WILLIAM ST VE

BAY S

 5

OS 6

R AI

UTH H E A D W SO NE



ORA

KIA

Double Bay’s famous Knox Street

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

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 - Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tourist Bus service.

Sydney & Bondi

Blue Mountains

Brisbane

Darwin

Perth

Hobart

City

www.theaustralianexplorer.com.au

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

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

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

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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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!

Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most original and exhilarating attraction Level 4, 393 George Street Sydney 9299 3929 sydney.escapehunt.com See map p53 4

Sydney A-Z

MUSEUM

& WILLIAM STREET 54-55

Australian Museum

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

Australian Museum

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 AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM 6 College 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

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

Hyde Park Barracks Museum (p50)

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

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 worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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

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

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

100

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

Opera at the Sydney Opera House

24 June-29 August Turandot La Traviata Don Carlos The Marriage of Figaro

PRINCIPAL PARTNER

HERO PARTNERS

Book at the Sydney Opera House, online or visit your concierge. opera.org.au sydneyoperahouse.com

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS