Although a modern metropolis, Sydney is a vibrant city full of exciting experiences, sounds, tastes and adventures. Just like its famed Opera House, the city of Sydney can also be described as one of the wonders of the world, due to its stunning natural location, colonial and Aboriginal heritage, and the diverse urban cultural scene, you won’t find anywhere else on the continent. With so much sights to see when traveling to Sydney, here are the most stunning places around Sydney you need to see to believe.
Sydney Tower Eye
If you are visiting Sydney for the first time, the Sydney Tower Eye is the perfect place to get your bearings, and plan your entire visit. As the second tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere, it offers breathtaking 360 degree views of Sydney and its entire surrounding area. Although tickets for the 50 m-tall observation deck are pricey, they do include binoculars, and a virtual dynamic 4D flight tour of Sydney’s best known landmarks. This is really helpful, since for the price of this stunning view, you also get all the tourist info to help you figure out what to see next.
Sydney Harbor
Regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful natural harbors, Sydney Harbor is 240 kilometer stretch of shoreline and waterways, around which the city of Sydney was built on. The reason behind Sydney’s nickname – Harbor City, this aquatic playground is a vibrant hub of activity and the center for most of Sydney’s best known landmarks. Apart from the World Heritage listed Sydney Opera House, the harbor is home to other man-made marvels, like Harbor Bridge and the Royal Botanic Gardens, national parks, and is rich in both colonial and Aboriginal history. Getting a coach for hire in Sydney is the best way to have a tour of the entire Harbor, since you won’t have to worry about parking. Make sure to end your tour of the Harbor by visiting Sydney Harbor Park, or by enjoy an ocean-side view dinner at McMahons Point.
Circular Quay
Located on the edge of Sydney’s inner city center, the Circular Quay is vibrant and the most active part of Sydney Harbor. Sydney’s largest ferry terminal is located at the Quay, as well as water taxi and harbor cruise docks, making it an ideal starting point if you want to visit one of the surrounding harbor islands, like Fort Denison, Shark or Rodd Island. Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art and the historic Customs Office House are located at the Quay, while the Sydney Opera House is in walking distance, making it a great place from where to start your tour. On the other hand, you can visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales which doesn’t charge admission fees, and features an “Art after Hours” special program.
The Rocks
Just across Circular Quay lies the historic Rocks district. During its early history, the Rocks served as living quarters for British convicts sent to Australia. By retaining the original colonial architectures from that period, the Rocks have attracted artists, who have turned it into what it is today – a charming and culturally active part of town. The old streets are beaming with art at every corner, as many galleries, local museums, and theatre companies are located in its colorful 19th century houses. The Rocks also has an active nightlife, with some of Sydney’s oldest pubs, jazz clubs, and dance halls open well into the night.
Bondi Beach
If you want to spend a day away from the city humdrum, visit one of Australia’s best and most active beaches – Bondi Beach. Situated just outside Sydney’s eastern suburban area, Bondi’s sandy beach and clear blue waters are perfect if you want to sit back and enjoy the sun, or try out the Aussies’ favorite pastime – surfing. During summer, Bondi becomes a best loved weekend getaway for residents of Sydney, as it comes alive, featuring festivals, beach parties and art exhibitions, like the free Sculpture by the Sea exhibition.
It may be hard to believe, but these stunning places are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to spectacular places in Sydney. If you want to find out which are the rest, all you have to do is pack your bags and visit this amazing city in the Land Down Under.
