Here we go: About Sydney
What is now the Greater Sydney region was home to various Aboriginal Australians for nearly 45,000 years. During the 17th century, various Europeans landed in the area and, in 1770, Captain James Cook landed at Botany Bay, south of what is now the city center, and claimed the area for England. The first European settlement was established in 1788, with the arrival of Captain Arthur Phillip, who brought a shipload of convicts and soldiers to guard them. The transformation of Sydney into a thriving city began in 1810, with the arrival of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, who commissioned the building of many of Sydney’s historical structures. Sydney was officially declared a city in 1842.
Places to visit in Sydney
Welcome to Sydney, a modern, vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history and many interesting places to visit!
Sydney Opera House
We start our Sydney tour at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Considered one of the 20th century’s architectural masterpieces, the Sydney Opera House was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the structure sits at the tip of a peninsula into Sydney Harbour and features interlocking vaulted ‘shells’ that contain two main performance halls, a restaurant and an expansive terrace. Construction on the Sydney Opera House began in 1959 and it opened in 1973. In 1960, Paul Robeson, the acclaimed American singer, became the first artist to perform at the Opera House when he climbed the scaffolding and sang for the workers as they ate lunch.
Opera, theatre, dance and concert performances take place regularly at the Sydney Opera House. In addition, guided tours are available.
Sydney Harbor Bridge
Opened on March 19, 1932, the steel arch Sydney Harbour Bridge spans the Sydney Harbour, connecting the city’s central business district to its north shore. The Bridge can be crossed on foot, by train or by ferry, as well as by car or bus, and offers wonderful views of the Sydney Opera House. The parks at both ends of the bridge are popular locales for picnics and sports. In addition, guided bridge climbing activities take place daily.
The Rocks District
Near the Sydney Harbour Bridge is The Rocks, a vibrant neighborhood that illustrates Sydney’s multicultural character. As the city’s oldest district, The Rocks contains many of the city’s historic structures, along with a wide range of cafes, restaurants, bars and galleries. The neighborhood is also home to the weekend Rocks Market, featuring over 200 stalls selling arts, crafts, fashion items and jewelry. The Rocks Foodies Market offers a variety of local products. The Rocks is also known for its festivals, which you can find here.
Sydney Tower
One of Sydney’s most distinctive structures is the Sydney Tower, topped by its ‘Golden Turret’. Accommodating up to 960 people, the Golden Turret features an observation deck and an upscale two-level restaurant. The Skywalk offers visitors the opportunity to stroll along a glass-floored outdoor observation deck, 268 meters above the ground.
Bondi Beach
The subject of countless photographs, beautiful Bondi Beach is a kilometer-long crescent of golden sand and clear water. Bondi is famous for its surf breaks, beach volleyball and other sports events; the area also has numerous cafes, hotels and shops, as well as the Bondi Pavilion, a cultural center that hosts various festivals and performances throughout the year.
Queen Victoria Building
The magnificent Queen Victoria Building is another must-see in Sydney. Designed by 28-year-old architect George McRae and opened in 1898, the Romanesque-style structure features arched stained-glass windows, and a central dome consisting of an inner glass dome and an exterior copper-sheathed dome. Originally a concert hall, the QVB is now home to five levels of upmarket shops, restaurants and cafes. Guided tours of the Queen Victoria Building are also available.
Hyde Park
The 16-hectares Hyde Park is certainly among the places to visit in Sydney. In central Sydney, Hyde Park offers lush green lawns, plenty of trees and a Pool of Reflection, as well as a cafe and a fountain. Hyde Park also hosts numerous exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Dining in Sydney
While the Michelin Guide doesn’t cover Australia as of this writing, Sydney is renowned for its food scene, powered by a multicultural population and talented chefs. In addition to a variety of international and fusion options, the city has its own local specialties, including some of the dishes listed below.
- Hot dog – basic and gourmet varieties, with a huge variety of toppings
- Tenderloin with chard
- Australian-style flaky baked meat
- Strawberry watermelon cake – created by Sydney chef Christopher Thé, this delectable layer cake features rosewater, almond meal and rose petals as well as strawberries and watermelon.
- Anzac biscuits – a type of oatmeal and coconut cookie, these long-lasting biscuits were allegedly sent to Australian soldiers from their families during the First World War.
- Sydney rock oyster – endemic to Australia, this delicious shellfish has a distinct, creamy flavor.
- Ginger brûlée tart – this acclaimed pastry originated in Sydney’s Bourke Street Bakery.
A little more information about* Sydney
If you’re ready to start an adventure on the Australian Continent, you can check out Sydney flight tickets here. In the meantime, keep reading for some useful tips for your visit to Sydney.
Staying in Sydney
Sydney is a large, sprawling city but each district has its own distinct charms. The Central Business District is great for sightseeing and proximity to the city center, while the Bondi Beach district is ideal for a seaside holiday. The lively Kings Cross neighborhood is also an option.
You can look into Turkish Airlines Holidays holiday packages and easily organize your accommodation and flight tickets via a single channel!
Transportation in Sydney
Sydney has a robust public transportation network that includes the metro and the train, as well as bus, ferry and light rail services. Taxis are also widely available.
Transportation from Kingsford Airport to the city center
Kingsford Airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, the number 1 bus or train operate to the city center. You can also rent a bicycle or a car at the airport. Airport taxis, available 24 hours a day, are a comfortable but slightly more expensive option.
We wish you safe travels!
