DK Travel : Sydney

Sydney is blessed with stunning ocean beaches, magnificent national parks and a wonderful subtropical climate that makes the great outdoors irresistible to its four million inhabitants. The Eora people, the Aborigines who settled around Sydney Harbour, arrived approximately 50,000 years ago, while the white settlers arrived just over 200 years ago. Free settlers soon followed in the wake of the First Fleet of transported convicts, and after them several waves of migrants seeking a new life. Now, two centuries later, the once far-flung penal colony has matured into a culturally diverse, tolerant and mesmerizing city. Ideally located on the world’s most beautiful harbour, Sydney is as exciting and bustling as it is laid back and relaxing.

Angsana Spa

Angsana’s Thailand-trained therapists offer 39 relaxing holistic treatments.
Annandale Hotel

This legendary Sydney live venue is a must-visit for anyone interested in the local music scene. The pub hosts live music most nights of the week, featuring everyone from local stalwarts to smaller international acts. If you get peckish, step out back for healthy Thai-Asian inspired food at Annandale’s Wok & Roll, a laid back local eat-in and take-away spot.
Anzac Bridge

This stunning bridge was named in honour of Australia’s WWI soldiers: Anzac stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. It spans narrow Johnstons Bay and links Pyrmont with Rozelle and Balmain (see Balmain & Leichhardt). Opened in 1995, this is the longest cable-stayed span bridge in Australia, and many consider it Sydney’s finest. A pedestrian path runs beside the inbound lanes and is accessible from Quarry Master Drive, north of the Sydney Fish Market. It offers great views of the city in the distance and the adjacent swing-span 1901 Glebe Island Bridge below.
Anzac Memorial

Mirrored in Hyde Park’s Pool of Reflection is this 1934 Art Deco monument built to commemorate Australia’s WWI dead (see Troops Set Sail). It now records the sacrifices made by thousands of Australians in subsequent conflicts. The Hall of Memory is on the upper level, overlooking Raynor Hoff’s moving statue, and the Hall of Silence is on the ground floor. A small museum on the ground floor features photographs and artifacts.
Argyle Stores

In a historic, converted warehouse, this eclectic array of stores includes unique gift shops and fashion houses.
ARQ Sydney

At the largest of all Sydney venues, the giant dance floor is overlooked by a mezzanine with cool spots for people-watching. Pounding commercial house music ensures it’s packed by midnight.
Art Gallery of New South Wales

Boasting one of the country’s most extensive collections of Australian and international art, this striking building in The Domain is not to be missed.
Art Gallery of NSW

It’s easy to spend a whole day in Sydney’s most extensive art gallery.
Arte e Cucina

Comforting Italian food, outdoor seating and friendly service make for a pleasant experience.
Arthouse Hotel

A restaurant and four bars are packed into this groovy city hangout. The gigantic main bar, The Verge, was once a chapel and features 19th-century stencilling and skylights. The Dome Lounge and the Attic, a former smoking room and chess club, provide more intimate surrounds, and art exhibitions are often held at the Gallery Bar. The cocktail list is divided into Impressionist, Classical, Modern, Nouveau and Abstract selections. There is also a programme of performances, screenings and special events.

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Restaurant price categories

For a two course meal for one with a drink (or equivalent meal), plus taxes and extra charges.
- under $35
- $35–$60
- $60–$120
- $120–$200
- over $200