If you have two hours...
Adjacent to the Central Business District, the historic quarter of The RocksSydney's birthplace, offers a striking contrast with the modernity of the business district. In fine weather, Hyde Park and the Botanical Gardens offer a chance to get out and about in the heart of the city, surrounded by ibises and lush vegetation. In terms of tourist activities, a visit to theopera or the zoo features prominently, as does the New South Wales Gallery or the museum of contemporary art. Finally, since Circular QuayA range of different mini-cruise formats allow you to discover the city from a different angle.
... or half a day
In half a day, travellers can easily reach Sydney's beaches. Bondi Beachthe nearest by bus, has become a cliché. However, it's a good starting point for a 3.5km walk that takes you to other, more authentic beaches, such as Bronte and Coogee Beachfurther south. If the weather or the atmosphere don't lend themselves to sunbathing, the bohemian district of NewtownWith its colourful street art and trendy boutiques, it's also well worth a visit.
"The proximity of the tourist district, the greenery of Hyde Park, the pedestrianised centre of Pitt St and its many bars: all these elements liven up the CBD and generate a mix of businessmen and tourists."
Laurie FoulonFrench expatriate in Sydney
Shopping
From historic monuments to gleaming buildings, from luxury to ready-to-wear, the CBD offers a wide range of shopping options. The galleries of the Queen Victoria Building and the arcades of The Strand are home to a host of trendy boutiques and restaurants in a vintage atmosphere. The more modern Westfeld shopping centre is home to most of the big international names, plus a wide choice of restaurants. For a more local feel, it's best to head a little further afield to the neighbouring districts of Darlinghurst, Surry Hills and even Newtown.
