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Sydney travel guide

Hotels, things to do, best time to go, deals and more

Stephanie Yip
Stephanie Yip

Updated

Fact checked
Sydney Opera

With its vibrant and bustling city, beautiful harbor, pristine beaches, iconic structures and favorable weather, it’s little wonder why Australia’s Sydney is a mecca for tourists near and far who flock its way for a vacation, a family visit or a business venture. When in town, spend time in the city with the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Tower Eye, Opera House and Targona Zoo in your sights and explore the restaurants and small bars, filled with world-recognized cuisines and drinks.

Venture out from the bustle to comb the beaches up aand down the coast or head inland for a hike, signature photo snap and Aboriginal tour through the Blue Mountains or any number of national parks that New South Wales has to offer. Whatever your itinerary, this Sydney travel guide will help you get to Sydney and see, eat and experience everything you need to make your journey a memorable one.

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Sydney travel deals

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Sydney hotel stays from $63 per night

Book hotels in Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Sydney Airport and more from just $63 per night.

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Sydney is a popular vacation destination given the vastly varied opportunities and activities on offer.

Whether you’re into major sporting events, relaxing by the beach or shopping and fine dining in the hustle and bustle of a cultural city, Sydney is perfect for you.

What should I know before I go?

Is Sydney in New South Wales?

Yes. Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales.

Is Sydney a city?

Indeed, it is. Sydney is the most densely populated city in Australia and Oceania. It’s a vibrant, diverse and enchanting city of opportunity.

Does Sydney have daylight savings?

Yes. New South Wales, including Sydney, observes daylight savings. Daylight savings commences on the first Sunday in October and ends on the first Sunday in April.

Where is the Sydney airport?

The Sydney airport is located on Airport Drive, Mascot. It’s situated about five miles south of Sydney city center and is colloquially known as Kingsford Smith airport, or Mascot airport. It’s connected to the city center by train.

Does the Sydney airport have free Wi-Fi?

Free Wi-Fi access is available in both the domestic and international terminals. Connecting to the Internet is easy; just follow these steps:

  1. Using your device, scan the available networks and choose “Free Internet by sponsor’s name & SYD”.
  2. Provide answers to questions.
  3. Read the terms of use and click “Proceed”.

You will be directed to a website after the sponsored message. You can enjoy Internet browsing for two hours and data usage of up to 500MB.

Health and safety

Is Sydney safe at night?

Sydney is a relatively safe place, but like most cities, it isn’t completely crime-free. Here are a few tips on safer travel in and around Sydney.

  • Crime: Keep your personal possessions close to you at all times, and keep your passport in your hotel safe or in a locked bag in your room. Violent crime in Sydney is rare, but beware of some neighborhoods, especially at night. In particular, Redfern is questionable, so avoid the area if possible. If you’re staying in western Sydney, steer clear of the areas of Mount Druitt, Blacktown and Wiley Park. King Cross is a notorious party district that can also be dangerous if you’re not cautious. Just remain alert and attentive.
  • Wildlife: The suburbs of Sydney are home to snakes and spiders, but if you’re planning on sticking to the city, they shouldn’t pose a risk.

Getting around and things to do

Uber is widely available throughout Sydney. Your Uber options include UberX, UberXL, UberASSIST, UberSELECT, UberTAXI, UberBLACK, UberLUX and UberSUV. Uber prices start at AUD$2.50 (US$1.92) for a basic fare, and a charge of AUD$1.45 per additional kilometer (US$0.69 per mile) thereafter. The minimum fare in Sydney is AUD$9 (almost US$7).

Where is the Sydney Opera House?

The Sydney Opera House sits on Bennelong Point in the city center, with the closest train station being Circular Quay. The Sydney Opera House is Australia’s most recognizable building and an icon of the country’s creative and technical accomplishments. It attracts worldwide respect and admiration for its design and construction.

Where is the Sydney Lyric theater?

The Sydney Lyric theater offers opportunities to experience stage shows, musicals, operas, ballets and concerts. It’s situated on Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, Sydney next to The Star casino complex.

Where is Sydney Olympic Park?

Home to sports, leisure and educational events, Sydney Olympic Park is both a complex and suburb, and it sits just over 10 miles west of the city center. It’s situated on Rod Laver Drive, Sydney 2127, and is connected to the city by train.Back to top

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