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This maritime hub is Sydney’s nucleus. Plaques in the paving record observations about Australia by authors such as Mark Twain, Umberto Eco and Germaine Greer.

Recent renovations of this stately 1844 building saw the addition of a major new public library. The Union Jack on Loftus Street marks the site of European landing and settlement.

The only harbourfront reminders of the tidal creek (see Tank Stream) that determined Sydney’s location are two artworks on Alfred Street. Stephen Walker’s is at the western end, and Lynne Roberts-Goodwin’s (see Tankstream) is at the corner of Pitt Street.

Australia’s oldest street is now a busy stretch of boutiques, galleries, shops and pubs. The Rocks’ market selling crafts, jewellery and the like is held at the northern end of the street on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am–5pm.

The Sailors’ Home was formed in 1859 and ran until the 1970s providing cheap lodging to seamen. Behind the Georgian façade, the original north wing is in Romanesque Revival design.

Built in 1816, this is Sydney’s oldest surviving dwelling. It contains items excavated beneath the floors and the National Park Information Centre.

The cutting-edge MCA displays contemporary art from Australia and around the world. Its guided tours, free exhibitions and lectures by artists and curators are always well attended.

A stylish glass structure containing excellent restaurants, its 1988 renovation replaced the 1950s terminal that once accommodated passenger liners. Its views of the Opera House are unparalleled.

Australia’s first military church is officially named Holy Trinity Church. Designed by Henry Ginn in 1840, it was remodelled in 1878 by Edmund Blacket, Colonial architect of the Victorian Gothic main building at Sydney University.

The 1858 Italianate building was converted into a museum of astronomy in 1988. The tower’s time-ball still drops daily at 1 pm, while a cannon is fired simultaneously from Fort Denison.