Sydney travel guide

Glistening, vibrant and dynamic, the sun-soaked, beach-strewn metropolis of Sydney is the epitome of easy-going Aussie living.

Here, world-class cuisine and cutting-edge street culture, sport and fashion intersect on a daily basis, making it one of the world’s top cities to live in.

From the much-loved sights on the tourist trail (the iconic Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Bondi Beach) to the myriad of small, bustling bars and hidden art galleries, Sydney truly has something for all tastes.

Regarded by locals as the country's capital in all but name, Sydney is a thriving centre for both business and the arts with a buzzing, cosmopolitan scene to rival New York or London. Its busy social calendar means that festivals, sporting events or carnivals are underway all year round, especially during the summer.

Fresh produce and a cosmopolitan population mean there is a plethora of dining options. Some of the city’s most exciting cuisine is fusion food, merging Asian, Middle Eastern, European and Pacific Rim dishes, often paired with home-grown wines.

Speaking of wines, Australia has asserted itself globally as a leading plonk producer, and recent liquor law changes have resulted in a prolific rise in wine bars across the city.

When it comes to nightlife, the choice is second to none. Watering holes here cater to everyone from hippies and trannies to jazz aficionados and pub-lovers.

Sydney is divided into distinctive pockets, so it pays to spend time exploring. The vibrant inner eastern suburbs around East Sydney, Darlinghurst and Kings Cross are LBGT-friendly, especially during Mardi Gras. And on the coast, you’ll find Sydney’s better-known beaches, like Bondi and Coogee. Head to the northern beaches like Manly for more sophisticated vibes.

Visitors will be struck by the overwhelming choice of experiences here – whether you’re scaling the dizzy heights of Harbour Bridge, cruising open waters from the deck of a tall ship, or immersing yourself in Aboriginal history, there’s something for everyone. And it’s this endless list of things to do that will constantly remind you of Sydney’s reputation as an unforgettable world-class city.