Famously photogenic Sydney is Australia's largest city and the capital of New South Wales, the country's most visited state.

The traditional home of the Gadigal people of the Eora Aboriginal Nation, Sydney has evolved from a humble British penal colony founded in 1788 to a thriving port city.

Today, nearly half of Sydney's residents, known as "Sydneysiders," were born overseas. The city’s rich cultural makeup is reflected in its diverse food scene, where nearly every major international cuisine is represented creatively.

Iconic Attractions

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

Dear Lykkers. The Sydney Opera House, with its iconic white "sails," and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, affectionately called the "coat hanger," are two of Sydney’s most recognizable landmarks. However, the city offers much more, from serene beaches to lush parks.

Best Times to Visit

Spring and Autumn

October and November (late spring) or March and April (early autumn) offer comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, making these months ideal for exploring Sydney.

Summer

The summer months of December through February bring peak tourism, warm weather, and events like the Sydney Festival in January.

Winter

From May through August, Sydney is cooler, and prices are lower. The Vivid Sydney festival in May and June adds a magical touch with its dazzling light displays.

Key Travel Information

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)

Language: English

Electricity: Type-I plug (220-240 volts)

Calling Code: +61

Sydney’s artisan coffee culture ensures you’ll find a great brew, while tipping isn’t customary, as service charges are included in bills.

Getting Around Sydney

Public Transport

The Opal card works across all public transport, including trains, ferries, buses, and light rail. Sydney’s efficient network makes getting around seamless.

Other Options

Silver Service taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available. Ferries from Circular Quay provide scenic routes to places like Manly Beach and Taronga Zoo.

Top Accommodations

The Langham, Sydney

Located in The Rocks district, this luxurious hotel features an indoor pool, spa, and pet-friendly services. Some rooms offer stunning views of the harbor or skyline.

Capella Sydney

Housed in the historic Department of Education building, Capella is a blend of heritage and elegance. Its signature restaurant, Brasserie 1930, and the Auriga Spa add to the appeal.

Foodie Favorites

Lankan Filling Station

This Sri Lankan gem is known for its fragrant curries, sambals, and signature hoppers. Reservations are recommended, especially for the monthly crab curry feast.

Firedoor

A fine-dining haven fueled entirely by fire, Firedoor serves daily-changing menus featuring Australian produce, from kangaroo to coral trout.

Things to Do

National Parks

Explore the Royal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase, and the Blue Mountains for scenic hikes, Aboriginal engravings, and remote beaches.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Founded in 1816, this 74-acre garden features over 8,600 species and delightful dining options like the Botanic House.

Indigenous Experiences

Learn about Sydney's Aboriginal heritage through guided tours at the Royal Botanic Garden, Australian Museum, and the Burrawa Climb on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Weather

Sydney enjoys a humid subtropical climate. Summer highs reach the upper 70s (°F), while winter lows can drop to the mid-40s. Spring and autumn offer milder, more comfortable conditions.

Helpful Apps

Opal: Manage public transport fares.

Citymapper: Plan trips with multimodal options.

Uber: Book rides or airport pickups.

Maps-Me: Use offline maps for walking trails.

Sydney is a city that blends vibrant culture, natural beauty, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.