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Tiered levels rising to the bar at the back of the main room mean you can see the stage from anywhere in the room. That, plus great acoustics, makes this one of Sydney’s best live music venues. Smaller, more intimate events are held in the newly revamped Transit Lounge.

The first specifically-designed concert venue built in Sydney since the Opera House, the 1973 City Recital Hall is an uplifting space, ideal for acoustic music. The quality of sound has already attracted Australia’s leading companies, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Musica Viva and the Sydney Philharmonic Choir.

There’s no place like Home. Since its opening night performance by Paul Oakenfold, Sydney’s only true superclub has been packed solid. The massive club features a multilevelled main room, a chill-out zone, the infamous padded “silver room” and an outdoor terrace. Also attached is Homebar, a casual café and mellow bar. The hottest Sydney DJs have residencies here, and top international acts are regularly featured.

A landmark of the Australian jazz, blues and roots scene since the early 1970s, the walls of The Basement are covered in autographed photos of the stars who have graced its stage. There’s live music every night of the week, and you can buy dinner-and-showpackages or standing tickets.

Sydney’s hardest-working live venue hosts more than 30 bands and solo artists every week, so there’s music to suit every taste. This musician-friendly bar has a strong local following, particularly for their Sunday afternoon sessions.

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.

Coogee Bay Live marks the revival of a once-mighty live venue. This spot caters to devotees of Oz Rock and those who don’t mind their ears ringing the next day. It’s located in the backpacker haven of The Coogee Bay Hotel, which accommodates 7 bars.

This Newtown venue specializes in jazz, blues and roots music. Bands play Wednesday to Sunday, and you’re likely to hear anything from Latin jazz to country soul on their eclectic bill. The non-smoking venue also features a nifty cocktail bar.

This tiny Surry Hills venue packs them in for live music six nights a week. The mostly local acts run from alternative rock and pop to country. The atmosphere is friendly and the room looks more like a lounge than a bar.

The central element at this nightclub is the music, and the main dance floor pumps with pure house. Rehydrate at one of three bars or, if you’re lucky enough, the VIP lounge, which is decked out with silver bean bags and mirror balls. The decor is a throwback to Studio 54.