Sydney has an efficient train system, with a circle subway line around the city, and trams that cruise down its main thoroughfare of George Street.
At around 50 miles long, the Bondi to Manly walk starts to the east of the city and finishes on the north shore of the harbor, but can be broken up into smaller legs, and takes in some of Sydney’s most picturesque vistas and neighborhoods.
Lycra-clad locals flock to the Bondi to Bronte walk, which snakes along the headlands between the two beachside suburbs, providing stunning views all the way. Visit during Sculpture by the Sea when the route becomes an outdoor exhibition space for 100 sculptures by Australian and international artists.
With its rustic chic dining room and signature farm-to-table menu, Fred’s is the perfect place for a long lunch. The cocktails are great too.
The quality of Tetsuya Wakuda’s considered, exquisitely rendered Japanese food makes eating here more than a meal; it’s an experience.
Seasonal ingredients are combined with all manner of fire to dramatic and delicious effect at this bustling eatery in Surry Hills.
A favorite of visiting celebrities, this waterfront five-star property looks out to the Sydney Opera House on one side, and up to the hulking form of the Harbour Bridge on the other.
The Langham is located in the historic Rocks neighborhood, one of the oldest in the city, and nearby to headlining sights and the restaurants of the harborside Barangaroo precinct.
Housed in a heritage wool store, this boutique hotel respects the building’s history while still managing to feel seriously hip.
The boutique Kimpton Margot Sydney is housed in a grand art deco building and boasts a stylish rooftop pool.
Climbing the arches of the Harbour Bridge – and standing 440 feet above the water, looking out to seemingly endless views of the city – is a truly monumental experience.
Each year in March and April, Opera Australia decamps to a huge floating stage for Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, an outdoor performance which culminates in a fireworks spectacular with the Bridge and Opera House in the background.
The experience of staying at this luxurious, beautifully designed eco-lodge within the grounds of Taronga Zoo Sydney includes privileged access to everything from spiny echidnas to potoroos to koalas within the guests-only sanctuary enclosure, delicious meals using sustainably grown local produce and after-hours access to the zoo.
This cavernous, hands-on museum is filled with exhibits focusing on science and design, from an historic steam train to a replica of a space craft.
Surfing is a favorite pastime in Sydney; the whole family can learn to ride a board in the waters off Manly, to the north of the city.
The Blue Mountains, located an hour west of the city, is an easy day tour or weekend stay option full of stunning scenery, nature walks, and quaint villages. Visit in summer for the temperate climate or during winter to feel the chill nipping at your nose. For the ultimate stay, book into Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley, a luxury lodge in pristine surroundings.