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.

State Library Galleries

Several rooms in the Mitchell wing of the State Library present exhibitions. Shows range from displays of historical documents and letters to photography and crafts.
State Theatre

Originally a cinema with over-the-top Gothic, Baroque and Art Deco elements, this 1929 National Trust-classified “Palace of Dreams” was designed by Henry White, who also worked on the Capitol Theatre. Sweeping staircases embrace its lavish Grand Assembly foyer, and the massive 20,000-piece Koh-iNor chandelier dominates the 2,000-seat auditorium. Since 1974, this theatre has been the premier venue for the Sydney Film Festival. During the year it presents live acts and musical performances, which have included Bette Midler and kd lang, among others.
Stellar Suites

Particularly good value for families, there is no extra charge for kids under 12, and two bedroom apartments have a queen and four bunk beds. The rooms are large but only three apartments have fully equipped kitchens.
Stills Gallery

A wide range of Australian photography.
Stonewall

Three levels include a bar, dance floor and lounge bar. It’s patronized mostly by men and their straight girlfriends. Male Order on Wednesday nights is very popular.
Storytime Readings

Children under five who fancy some downtime can attend Preschool Storytime sessions at the Balmain Library.
Strand Arcade

Although Melbournians will disagree, this may be Australia’s most impressive Victorian-era glass-roofed shopping arcade. Designed by John Spencer and opened in 1892, this quiet and elegant arcade (see Strand Arcade) is home to boutiques, jewellers, tailors, coffee shops and groovy home-ware stores such as Funkis and Dinosaur Designs. Pressed-metal stairs and quaint lifts service the three levels. After browsing the arcade, take a seat at the small tables on the western end of the upper levels, and enjoy a cup of tea overlooking the shoppers below.
Strand Arcade

The best of the Pitt Street arcades houses gems such as Strand Hatter’s, the source of authentic Akubras.
Sullivans

Standard rooms at this friendly hotel face the bustle of Oxford Street. It’s worth paying a tiny bit more for a garden room which overlooks the courtyard and swimming pool. Guests can use the Internet, pool, gym, in-house movies and bicycles.
Sumalee Thai

This one tops Newtown’s many great Thai restaurants because it’s in an outdoor courtyard. Enjoy the sultry flavours on a balmy summer evening.

Jump to top

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
Hotel price categories

For a standard double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $80
- $80–150
- $150–250
- $250–350
- over $350