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Bus services run frequently and are a good, cheap way to get around, although traffic can be very heavy at rush hour. Routes denoted with a “L” or “X” indicate services that travel a greater distance between stops. Many buses leave from Circular Quay, so look out for the signs and maps.

Trains to most areas leave from the Town Hall and Central stations. Services run frequently from 6am until midnight. There are heavy fines for smoking, littering or placing feet on seats.

Sydney ferry services (see On the Water) operate from Circular Quay to 37 wharves. The 30-minute ride from Circular Quay to Manly is extra special, but those who find it too long can catch the Jet Cat. Though not cheap, ferries are a great way to see Sydney and to experience the harbour.

A pleasant and fast way to get around, this is easily the best direct transport from the CBD to the Fish Market.

Expensive but great fun, the monorail snakes through Sydney’s CBD in a loop that takes in the Galeries Victoria, city centre, Darling Harbour, Powerhouse Museum, Chinatown and World Square. The trains depart every 5 minutes.

Make bookings if you want to arrive at an exact time, especially at peak hours and on weekend nights. If drivers don’t know the way, you are entitled to have them turn off the meter while they look up the street directory. Fares are regulated and cost more after 10pm. Smoking is not allowed and a driver may refuse to take you if you are drunk.

Running from most piers, they’ll pick you up from anywhere they can navigate. Prices vary, but expect to pay a flagfall of about $45 and an additional cost per person. Look for them at Circular Quay, or call to book one.

Great value tickets allow you to get on and off the buses at will, and frequent services run the loop. A two-day twin ticket allows you to travel on both Sydney and Bondi Explorers.

While the public transport network is excellent, having a car in Sydney makes getting around easy, particularly in the outer suburbs. A good street directory is essential, and you can use your usual license if you show proof that you’re just visiting.

There are many cycle lanes on Sydney roads, making travel by bicycle safer and easier than ever before. Download a cycle map and hire a bike for a day or week from Cheeky Monkey or Woolys Wheels.