Sydney

Although it’s not the capital, there is little doubt that Sydney remains Australia’s premier city. The Harbour City, home to over 4.5 million people, offers a blend of vibrant bars and beaches that’s a draw for young people, but it also has a laid-back and self-confident vibe that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

Sydney is symptomatic of an evolving Australian culture, often being described as one of the most cosmopolitan and charismatic cities on the planet. Sydney residents are also renowned for going out of their way to make visitors feel at home, making this an ideal holiday destination.

Sydney plays host to some of the world’s most recognisable tourist attractions, with the inner harbour housing the distinctive Sydney Opera House and the ocean side boasting the warm golden sands of Bondi Beach, perennially lapped by clear blue waves.

There is much to explore elsewhere within the city, however. In the CBD, Sydney Tower provides breath-taking views over the city, and is the starting point for the popular Skywalk—a guided tour around the outside of the tower, 268 metres above the ground. If heights aren’t your thing, Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing harbour-side stroll, and lead visitors to the iconic Sydney Opera House. From here, it’s a short walk to Circular Quay, where you can catch a ferry to many harbour locations, or just enjoy the round trip. Dock into Darling Harbour and explore the award-winning Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and the fascinating Australian National Maritime Museum.

Sydney’s waterfront throngs with diverse restaurants and bars. The Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and Potts Point areas are famed for the fine-dining choices they offer. Numerous scenic parks provide a relaxing location to enjoy food and drink if you prefer the self-catering option.

If you’re looking for some scenic thrills, don’t miss Luna Park with its roller-coaster, Ferris wheel and other traditional amusements, right under the famous Harbour Bridge. If you have a head for heights, try the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb for spectacular views.

Kids will love Taronga Zoo, home to many species of native Australian animals, while the inner-city suburbs of Paddington and Newtown will appeal to adults with their café culture and eclectic mix of boutiques and galleries. For some retail therapy, make your way to Bondi Junction, and the well-stocked Westfield mall.

Above all else, Sydney’s uniquely Australian natural beauty shines through at all times, with the Bush, beaches and the Harbour City’s coastline only a stone’s throw away. A relatively mild climate, stunning scenery, excellent transport networks and no end of things to do make Sydney a simply unmissable experience.