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Articles » Sydney Top Ten Things to See and Do
Created: 2nd April 2008
Although not the official capital, Sydney is Australia’s largest city. Nicknamed ‘The Harbour City’, Sydney is a place of outstanding beauty and cultural significance. Any visitor to Sydney will tell you there is no shortage of attractions and events to keep you occupied, but here are our top ten:
1. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge
What better way to see one of Sydney's most iconic landmarks than to climb it? At 134 meters high the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge affords fantastic views over the harbour and the Sydney Opera House. Choose from the original Bridge Climb or the new Discovery Climb which takes you inside the workings of the bridge as well as to the summit. For even more spectacular views, pick a sunrise or sunset climb.
For more information visit www.bridgeclimb.com
2. Sydney Opera House
No visit to Sydney is complete without paying tribute to the city's most famous landmark; the Sydney Opera House. Situated on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, the Opera House is hard to miss. One of the twentieth centuries most photographed buildings; the architectural triumph has recently been declared a World Heritage Site. As well as playing host to various theatre, dance and musical productions from around the globe, this world class venue is also home to the Sydney Theatre Company, Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet and many more excellent performing arts societies. It is best to book well in advance as such performances sell out quickly. After you've enjoyed a performance or two, take a tour of the fascinating building and learn more about its history, architecture and behind the scenes secrets.
For more information visit www.sydneyoperahouse.com
3. The Rocks
Often referred to as the "Birthplace of Australia", The Rocks is a must see for all visitors to Sydney. Nestled on the Southern shore of Sydney Harbour, this picturesque village was first settled by Captain Arthur Phillip in 1788. This is a place of enormous historical significance, which can be explored in various guided walking tours of the area. The Rocks is also home to an array of vibrant shops, bars and restaurants which tastefully fuse the new with the old. Weekends are a great time to visit as there is often live entertainment and street theatre on offer. Don't miss the famous Rocks Market which sells some great gifts and souvenirs.
For more information visit www.therocks.com
4. Sydney Tower
Not for the faint hearted, the Sydney Tower stands an enormous 260 meters above the city. That's twice the height of the Harbour Bridge! The Sydney Skywalk offers you a breathtaking 360 degrees view of Sydney's top attractions. The 40 minute guided experience includes outdoor walkways and glass bottomed platforms that jut out high above the city. Don't worry - harnesses are provided! The Skywalk ticket also includes access to the Sydney Tower Observation Deck and OzTrek, a virtual Australian adventure featuring 3D technology, a 180 degree cinema and surround sound technology.
If thrill seeking is not your cup of tea, then enjoy the views in style in Sydney's highest restaurant. At an amazing 300 meters above sea level, The Sydney Tower restaurant is the highest revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere. The restaurant revolves a full 360 degrees every 70 minutes, affording diners excellent views over the whole city.
For more information visit www.sydneytoweroztrek.com.au and www.sydneytowerrestaurant.com.au
5. Sydney Harbour Cruise
Sydney Harbour boasts more than 250 kilometers of bays, coves and beaches.what better way to explore this fabulous harbour city than by boat?Take a sightseeing cruise on the Sydney Harbour and admire the beauty of the city from a different perspective. Enjoy stunning views on the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, whilst relaxing on deck.There are a wide variety of cruises available, including jazz cruises, sunset cruises, dinner cruises and many more. If you want to splash out and really see the sights in style, then why not hire your own private boat?
6. Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour
A mere two hour drive from the city and you're in Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine growing region.
The best time to visit is during the harvest season, from late January to late March, but all year round you can sample award winning wines and perhaps treat yourself to a case or two? Various tours of both the small boutique wineries and the larger well known producers are available.
7. Manly
Manly is one of Sydney's most popular seaside destinations. Surrounded by ocean and harbour on three sides, Manly is a paradise for the water sports enthusiast. Manly's eighteen coves and ocean beaches offer kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, fishing and sailing, as well as a wealth of land based activities including golf, rollerblading, beach volleyball and a variety of scenic walks.All this is just 8 miles from the Sydney, and is easily reached by a 30 minute ferry ride or 15 minute Jetcat.
8. The Blue Mountains
Named after the blue haze produced by Australia’s unique eucalyptus trees, the Blue Mountains are one of Sydney's most beautiful and diverse recreation areas. This World Heritage listed National Park offers a wealth of activities, from bush walking and cave exploring, through to fine dining and antique browsing. Rivaling the Rockies in length, the Blue Mountains encompass dozens of tranquil townships and some truly breathtaking scenery. Well worth a visit!
9. Sydney Wildlife World
Located in Darling Harbour, just a ten minute walk from the CBD is Sydney's newest nature experience, the Sydney Wildlife World.There's no need to travel out to the bush to enjoy Australia's fascinating flora and fauna. Sydney Wildlife World featuring nine different habitats, including the Rainforest, Wallaby Cliffs and Nocturnal exhibits, as well as the chance to meet Australia's cutest inhabitant at the Koala Sanctuary. With over 100 different Australian species and 65 displays to explore, this is a great day out for all the family. For more information visit www.sydneywildlifeworld.com
10. Sydney Aquarium
Located next to the Sydney Wildlife World, the Sydney Aquarium contains Australia's largest collection of aquatic life. The aquarium houses an excellent collection of marine life, including sharks, rays, crocodiles and penguins.Enjoy the diverse aquatic habitats and marvel at Australia's unique underwater species. With over 12,000 marine animals, the Sydney Aquarium is a must see attraction right in the heart of the city.
For more information visit www.sydneyaquarium.com.au
