Sydney’s visual wow factor is unlike any other. The city, which is spectacularly draped around its famous harbour, is well-known for its 20th-century architecture. One of the world’s most recognisable structures, the Sydney Opera House was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. Since then, this magnificent venue has staged more than 100,000 performances and received over 100 million visitors. In 2007, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have a head for heights then you’ll love Sydney Harbour Bridge. Bridge tours take you to the very top of this 134-metre giant, which opened in 1932, where you’ll see breathtaking views of Sydney, its harbour and the Sydney Opera House. Back on the ground, the bridge is visible in the most surprising of places thanks to its enormous dimensions. It has 53,000 tonnes of steel making it the biggest (if not longest) steel arch bridge in the entire world.
The harbour is the beating heart of Sydney. An aquatic playground for Sydney’s locals, it’s a great base for exploring the city. Ferries depart from Circular Quay throughout the day to different parts of the harbour, while watersports await on every corner.
Just a stone's throw away from the Sydney Opera House is the Royal Botanic Garden. Covering a sizeable 74 acres, the Royal Botanic Garden is a beautiful showcase of Australia’s native flora and fauna. Established in 1816, the gardens feature the Calyx, a striking exhibition space with a curving glasshouse gallery, wall of greenery and temporary plant-themed exhibitions.
Elsewhere, pristine beaches lie in wait. Life really is a beach in Sydney, this city boasts more than 40 of them! The glorious Bondi Beach is the most famous and the place to go to watch surfers catch waves, while Maroubra Beach is a lovely location for a barbeque and to simply watch the world go by. If you fancy a double dose of fun in the sun, take the popular Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach coastal walk - the stroll takes around two hours and features rock pools, secluded bays and magnificent clifftop views. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Which cruise lines sail to Sydney?
