Sydneysiders work hard and play hard . And there’s no better place to see them in action than the city centre, which is a manic tide of shoppers, opinionated taxi drivers, feral bicycle couriers and office workers talking furiously into their mobile phones as they power-walk to their next appointment. The city centre is surrounded by Circular Quay, The Rocks, the Botanic Gardens, the Domain, Central Station, Darling Harbour and Chinatown. Within this precinct you’ll find historic sites and buildings sandwiched between chi-chi boutiques, groovy bars and restaurants, elegant Victorian shopping arcades and a host of entertainment venues. While it’s easy to get caught up in the flow, don’t forget to stop every once in a while to enjoy the architecture or the numerous street performers.
More on City Shopping Centres.-
Morning
From Circular Quay follow Loftus Street to Macquarie Park, exhibiting the anchor from the First Fleet HMS Sirius. Across the road is the 1876 Lands Department Building, seat of early European land ownership. Its façade features statues of explorers, including Ludwig Leichhardt and Major Thomas Mitchell. Head to Martin Place via George Street and check out the GPO ’s Pitt Street colonnade with characters representing trades, professions and industries, then sneak a peek through the windows of Martin Place’s grand banks. Turn right into Macquarie Street (see Macqurie Street Precinct), taking care not to bump into one of the city’s “wigs”, for this is Sydney’s legal district. At Hyde Park , note the lovely Art Deco Archibald Fountain and wander down the glorious avenue of fig trees to Park Street. Turn right and take a seat outside the classy Bambini Trust Café at 185 Elizabeth Street. Sample an antipasto while you peruse the Specials menu and the passers-by.
Afternoon
Head to Market Street and turn left: Sydney Tower is one block down on your right and the Pitt Street Mall (see Pitt Street Mall) two blocks down. Turn into the mall and left into the Strand Arcade and it’s time for a caffeine fix at Luxe Espresso. Exit at George Street and turn left. On the next corner is the QVB where you can spend the rest of the afternoon happily splurging.
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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.
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In a historic, converted warehouse, this eclectic array of stores includes unique gift shops and fashion houses.
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Australians have invented all kinds of gadgets and you’ll find many of them here. Find outdoor tools and toys and great presents for children.
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In a city of glitzy views, this underground bar makes a pleasant change. Try the delicious cocktails and bar food, but avoid Friday nights when it’s packed full of suits.
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It doesn’t do cocktails, but punters flock to this giant waterside pub until bouncers are turning the hordes away. Get there early and be prepared for the very mainstream crowd.
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The perfect place for a romantic dinner with its moody lighting, a Mod Oz/Asian menu and gorgeous harbour views. Check out the cigar bar and jazz on Friday nights.
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Some of Sydney’s most glamorous shopping, where you’ll find international labels such as Gucci, Vuitton and Chanel.
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Grungy, smoky and filled with goths and punks, this dive pub is the place to go before watching a band at the Metro (see Metro Theatre).
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Happiness is welcomed into this lively restaurant by the giant Buddha that takes center stage. The delicious Malaysian food may be an aphrodisiac.
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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.
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