Sydney CBD and Suburbs | New South Wales

To the north

The beachside suburb of Manly is easily accessible by bus or ferry, and is a well-regarded surfing and tourist destination. Both the Food and Wine Festival(late May-early June) and Jazz Festival(end Sept) draw huge crowds every year; locals and visitors alike.

Another beachside suburb, Palm Beach, is a holiday playground for many Sydneysiders. Beaches lie on both sides of the northernmost point of the peninsula, bordering a golf course and recreation reserve.

Closer to the city, Taronga Zoo sits nestled in Bradley's Head, Mosman and enjoys amazing harbour and city views. It is regarded as one of the world's finest zoos.

In a more secluded part of the northern suburbs, Berowra Waters is known for its quiet waterfront setting. There are 4 restaurants and 2 marinas to enjoy, or a picnickers' paradise on the western bank next to a handy boat ramp.

To the south

The south of Sydney boasts the famous Bondi Beach. Wander the promenade with its restaurants and cafes, or perhaps join the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations.

A most amazing sight is that of Waverley Cemetery, which is situated on a promontory of Sydney's south-east coastline and dominated by tall, white marble headstones.

Closer to the city centre is the bustling and colourful district of Kings Cross. Nestled together with the strip shows and sex shops are some of the city's best restaurants and night spots.

A visit to Vaucluse to see some of Sydney's most exclusive residences and the gothic mansion, Vaucluse House, could end with a lunchtime stop at Watsons Bay. This prime harbour position boasts the famous Doyles Wharf Restaurant and impressive scenic walks to South Head. Alternatively, picnic in shady Nielsen Park.

The University of Sydney in Camperdown is one of the most striking universities in Australia. Modelled on Cambridge and Oxford, Sydney Uni has a heritage worth discovering on one of the guided tours on offer.

To the north-west

This region is dominated by the mighty Hawkesbury/Nepean river system, which winds its way through recreational parks, picnic spots and holiday retreats.

The City of Parramatta contains 24 historic buildings as well as several memorials in and around Parramatta Regional Park.

While travelling up the Great Western Hwy towards Penrith and the Blue Mountains, Wonderland Sydney will be top of the children's list of places to visit, with over 80 rides, food outlets and theme shows.

To the south-west

This is Macarthur Country, named after the early pioneers John and Elizabeth Macarthur who bred merino sheep and provided the foundation for Australia's wool industry. Today, it is a relatively urbanised region but has successfully preserved a few rural pockets and parts of its colonial heritage.

The historic centre of Camden boasts 3 reserves, which are perfect for picnicking, as well as many heritage-listed buildings.

Mount Annan Botanic Garden is the largest in Australia and will eventually include most of the country's 25 000 known plant species organised in themes.