The capital of New South Wales, Sydney summarizes all that you need to see and do in Australia. Skyscrapers like Sydney Tower that are reaching the skies to the bustling Sea Life at the Sydney Aquarium and the iconic Sydney Opera House, Sydney is the heart beat of Australia. Lying amid land and sea, this is one of the largest cities that the country down under has to offer. With its glittery harbor and endless coastline, this is bound to be one’s favorite city for relaxation and excursions.
The apple of Sydney’s eye is none other than the iconic Sydney Opera House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the star of the show as it glistens next to the harbor. A graceful building that is shaped like sea shells has won over many hearts with its exterior alone. However, the structure encompasses exhibitions, theatres, cinemas and studios where history has been made. In addition to this, the building is located close to the harbor which means one can enjoy a luxury walk along the harbor and revel in the beauty of the city that is lit up at night. Considered to be one of the wonders of the world, this Opera House id designed by JornUtzon and opened in October of 1973. The interior is as impressive as the exterior because of the impressionable work done by artists.
The second destination on your list of must visit attractions of Sydney is the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Built in 1932, the steel arch bridge can carry pedestrian traffic as well as rail and vehicular. With a height of 134 meters, the bridge is the highest arched structure in the world. Private tours of this wonderful iconic structure is a must for anyone who is visiting for the first time.
Marking the skyline of Sydney is the tallest free standing structure that reaches over 309 meters above ground. The Sydney Tower which is also known as the 360 Bar is home to a revolving restaurant that provides 360 panoramic views of the entire city. Not only does one get to taste over 40 dishes however, the golden beaches and the beautiful harbor city shines from above in all its glory.
One of the most sought after places in the city are The Rocks. Situated at the foot of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, The Rocks hold a special place in shaping the history of Australia. Known as the outdoor museum, this is one of the oldest parts of Australia that you will come across. With a touch of cafés and restaurants now in place, this area has become a hit!
Boasting one of the largest collections of the aquatic life, the Sydney Aquarium has over 60 tanks and 12000 aquatic animals and approximately 650 species are on display. With 3 oceanariums, this is the known to be home to the world’s largest fresh water fish. Being a harbor city, the best thing about Sydney is the Fish Market. The world’s second largest seafood market hosts a wide variety of fresh seafood.
With canvas like views and stunning greenery, the Sydney Royal Botanical Gardens takes you away from all the noise of the city life. Revel in the beauty of the picturesque sun set and take a walk around the flora and fauna.
The city boasts many landmarks such as The Gap which is a dip between the sandstone cliffs. Situated next to the Watsons Bay and at the South Head, The Gap has been a major attraction because of the stunning views and sheer beauty. Experience a blast from the past by visiting the 19th century estate known as the Vaucluse House. With offices, stables and kitchen, the estate still has about 26 acres of gardens surrounding it. Retaining its original setting, the Vaucluse House is a must see.
Some of the leading airlines offering cheap flights to Sydney from the UK are China Southern Airline, Asiana Airlines, China Eastern Airline, Malaysia Airlines, Air China, Qantas and Emirates.
There are no direct flights to Sydney from London as of the latest flight records.
The average flight time from London to Sydney Kingsford Smith is 21hours 30minutes.
Sydney Airport is located at a distance of approximately 8km south of the city center.
Sydney Airport offers a number of easy and efficient transport options for reaching the city. There is a dedicated and sheltered taxi rank located outside each of the airport's terminals for convenient transport to the city center. For those seeking to get hold of a max taxi or station wagons for larger groups of people or wheelchair accessible taxis, there are Curbside supervisors on each of the taxi ranks that will help you find one. Taxis can also be pre-booked at Sydney Airport. Taxis prior- booked will be located at the pre-booked parking bays at both the domestic and the international terminals of the airport.
Sydney Airport also offers an efficient train service for reaching the city. These are located at both the domestic and international terminals of the airport and usually entail an approximate time of 13minutes for reaching the city center. The international terminal train station is located at the northern end of the terminal and is easily accessible from the arrival's lounge.
An efficient bus service also operates between Sydney Airport and Sydney city center. Clearly signposted bus stops are located outside each of the arrivals terminal. In order to avail the limousine or shuttle bus services, you would have to make a pre-arrangement.
Many internationally acclaimed car rental company offices are also located on the arrivals level of both the terminals. This is a more convenient option if you are planning on touring the outskirts of Sydney. Driving in central Sydney can be confusing given the one-way street system and the expensive charged parking laws enforced outside many of the hotels and public centers of the city.
Sydney offers a number of convenient and reliable public transport options for getting around the city. There is a free CBD Shuttle bus service operating every 10 minutes from Central Station to Circular Quay and back via George Street. This shuttle bus service runs seven days a week and offers one of the best options for getting around Sydney. Timings will differ on weekends from the weekdays. You can hail these free shuttle bus service from any of the specially marked green CBD Shuttle bus stop signs.
A convenient tram service also runs between Central Station and Dulwich Hill, stopping in Chinatown, Darling Harbour, The Star casino, Sydney Fish Market and Glebe en route. Tickets for these trams can easily be purchased directly from the conductor.
Sydney's public transport options can be accessed using only one smartcard system by the name of Opal. These can be purchased from any of the news agencies and convenience stores located across Sydney.Opal allows easy access to all of Sydney's public transport options that include trains, light rail, ferries and buses. Your opal card can be loaded via a number of convenient options.
Sydney trains offer an efficient transport service around the city and suburbs of Sydney. The light rail service runsall the way from Central Station in the Sydney CBD to Dulwich Hill in Sydney’s Inner West. The light rail offers a great option for getting to Paddy’s Market, Darling Harbour, The Star and the Fish Markets.A great water taxi service also operates on Sydney's harbour offering convenient pick and drop service from any location on Sydney Harbour. A comprehensive bus service also operates on Sydney's roads, the suburbs and beyond. Buses on major routes operate 24 hours a day.
Taxis in Sydney are abundant and can easily be flagged down from the streets. Taxis are metered with fares that are strictly regulated.
Sydney offers a wide variety of accommodation options ranging from indulgent high-end hotels with Sydney Harbour views to budget-savvy backpacker hotels and hostels. If you are seeking to indulge in an extravagant stay, the city of Sydney will definitely not leave you disappointed. From luxurious 7 and 5-star hotels, indulgent boutique hotels and a range of the internationally acclaimed chain of hotels, there is no short of high-end stays in Sydney. Many of Sydney's expensive hotels are located within the Central Business District and Rocksdistrict that are at convenient walking distance from many of the city's top-rated tourist attraction spots.
Sydney also offers a range of budget hotels, hostels and backpacker accommodation options. These can easily be found in the southern half of the CBD and Haymarket, Glebe and Kings Cross, the Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee) and the Northern Beaches (Manly). Many self and serviced apartments also offer great options for those seeking an extended stay in the city.
