Sydney Hotels

Introduction to Sydney
With a sparkling harbour, al fresco dining and leafy inner-city villages, Sydney is a chic, bustling metropolis with a laid-back, outdoor vibe. Relax on golden beaches, watch the ferries criss-cross Sydney Harbour or enjoy a cocktail at a swanky rooftop bar.

Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)

Official language: English

Climate: Warm and temperate. Dec–Feb average 22C; Jun–Aug average 13C. Highest rainfall Feb, Mar & Jun

Getting around: Train; light rail; bus (Opal card can be used for all public transport); metered taxis

From Sydney Airport: Taxi to Sydney CBD approx 30 minutes (8km); train approx 13 mins

Top things to see & do

Landmark harbour, busy beaches and Aboriginal art

• Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb – walk along the upper arch of this iconic structure for incredible views
• Taronga Zoo – get up close to kangaroos and koalas against a spectacular harbour backdrop
• Bondi Beach – learn to surf, stroll along the sand or enjoy a meal overlooking the ocean
• Sydney Opera House – watch a performance or take a backstage tour at the famous arts venue.
• Art Gallery of NSW – see Old Masters and 19th-century Australian art at the collonaded gallery
• Australian Museum – browse collections of sacred Aboriginal artefacts and rare sea creatures
• Harbour boat ride – ride a speedy jet boat, take the Sydney ferry or relax on a dinner cruise past famous sights

Where to shop

Opal jewellery and independent fashions

• Pitt Street Mall – pedestrianised street packed with beauty and fashion outlets
• The National Opal Collection – a magnificent collection of opals and opal jewellery
• Paddington Markets – Oxford Street’s Saturday market, with independent designers
• Queen Victoria Building – grand 19th-century building with fashion and jewellery boutiques
• Darling Street – stylish street in suburban Balmain with funky fashions and homeware

What to eat

Indulgent brunch, Thai flavours and Mediterranean feasts

• Weekend brunch – indulgent dining featuring pancakes, waffles and cheeses with Bloody Mary at The Cortile at InterContinental Sydney
• Local meat dishes – kangaroo and wagyu beef in the Bluesalt Restaurant at Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach
• Thai cuisine – try favourites such as beef with black pepper sauce in local Asian restaurants
• Waterfront dining – visit modern eateries dotting King Street Wharf and Rose Bay

Special events in Sydney

Pride parade, illuminations and tennis

• Sydney Festival (Jan) – world-class theatre, musical performances and family-friendly events
• Sydney International Tennis (Jan) – top tennis stars compete at the Sydney Olympic Park
• Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (Feb-Mar) – annual Pride festival with a huge parade
• ANZAC Day March (Apr) – honouring the WWII veterans who served to defend Australia
• Vivid Sydney (May-Jun) – winter festival with music events and light sculptures illuminating the Opera House