Sydney
Sydney City Guide
Sydney is Australia’s largest city, famous for its harbour icons, world-class beaches, vibrant precincts, and year-round events. Whether you’re visiting for the Opera House, Bondi Beach, or exploring diverse neighbourhoods, this guide covers highlights, transport, accessibility, and practical tips.
Highlights
- Sydney Harbour: Opera House, Harbour Bridge, ferries, and waterfront walks
- Bondi to Coogee: Iconic coastal walk with beaches, pools, and cafés
- The Rocks: Historic precinct with markets, pubs, and harbour views
- Darling Harbour: Museums, aquarium, restaurants, and family attractions
- Royal Botanic Garden: Harbourside gardens with accessible paths
- Taronga Zoo: Harbour views and native wildlife
Neighbourhoods and precincts
CBD & Circular Quay
Business district, Opera House, ferries, shopping, and harbour attractions.
The Rocks
Historic cobblestone streets, weekend markets, pubs, and harbour views.
Darling Harbour
Family-friendly waterfront with museums, aquarium, restaurants, and events.
Bondi
Iconic beach, coastal walk, cafés, and surf culture.
Newtown
Bohemian vibe, King Street shopping, live music, and diverse dining.
Manly
Ferry ride from Circular Quay, beaches, Corso shopping strip, and coastal walks.
Surry Hills
Trendy cafés, boutiques, galleries, and nightlife.
Barangaroo
Modern waterfront precinct with restaurants, parks, and harbour walks.
Parramatta
Western Sydney hub with heritage sites, riverside dining, and transport connections.
Getting around
Public transport: Opal card for trains, buses, light rail, and ferries. Frequent services across metro Sydney. Tap on/tap off at stations and stops.
Airport to city: Train from Domestic/International terminals to Central or Circular Quay (13 mins to Central). Detailed airport guide →
Driving and parking: Tolls on major motorways (e-TAG/Linkt required). Parking expensive in CBD; use park-and-ride at outer stations or secure parking apps.
Walking and cycling: Pedestrian-friendly CBD and harbour foreshore. Bike share available. Dedicated cycleways along harbour and beaches.
Ferries: Scenic transport to Manly, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, and Parramatta. Included on Opal card.
Accessibility
Sydney is committed to accessible tourism and facilities.
- Accessible attractions: Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Royal Botanic Garden, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Australian Museum, Art Gallery of NSW (all publish detailed access info)
- Transport: Most train stations have lifts (check Transport NSW app). All ferries wheelchair-accessible. Low-floor buses on major routes. Accessible taxis and rideshare options available.
- Beaches: Accessible beach wheelchairs at Bondi, Coogee, Manly, and Cronulla. View accessible beaches →
- Adult change facilities: Available at Sydney Airport, major shopping centres (Westfield Sydney, Pitt Street Mall, Bondi Junction), museums, and transport hubs. View map →
- Parents’ rooms: Major shopping centres, museums, Darling Harbour, and transport hubs. View list →
- Sensory-friendly: Taronga Zoo, Australian Museum, and Powerhouse Museum offer sensory-friendly sessions and resources.
Use the Aussieloo app to find nearby accessible facilities with real-time info and opening hours.
Seasonal events
- Vivid Sydney — May/June: Light festival across harbour and city precincts
- New Year’s Eve Fireworks — December 31: Harbour fireworks and celebrations
- Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras — February/March: Parade and festival
- Sydney Festival — January: Arts, music, and outdoor performances
- Sculpture by the Sea — October/November: Bondi to Tamarama coastal exhibition
- Royal Easter Show — March/April: Agricultural show, rides, and entertainment
Day trips and nearby
- Blue Mountains — 90 mins by train: Scenic lookouts, bushwalks, and charming towns
- Hunter Valley — 2 hours drive: Wine region with cellar doors and gourmet dining
- Central Coast — 1 hour drive: Beaches, lakes, and family attractions
- Royal National Park — 1 hour drive: Coastal