48 Hours In: Sydney

48 Hours In: Sydney

Dry winds from the arid outback whip towards the Pacific coast, driving up temperatures, making Sydney a “hot spot” for holidays or short stays in winter. Often called the “Harbour City”, Sydney has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world.  Much envied by its sister cities in Australia; Sydney abounds with innumerable wonder sites – a cauldron of scenic surf beaches, modern architecture, historic sites, and sandstone headlands. It is a city where business meets Bohemia and the beach.

Downtown Sydney.

 

 Day One

Sydney Tower: Let’s Take a View

At a height of 305 meters, the Sydney Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the city.  Also called the “Centrepoint Tower,” it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sydney. The tower has two main sections that are open to public access.  One is the observation deck, which is perched at a height of 250 meters.  You can reach it via the tower’s high-speed double-deck elevators in just 40 seconds.  Once there, you will be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the cityscape.  You can also find there a revolving restaurant, as well as a small gift shop.  The Sydney Tower Skywalk is located a floor above the viewing platform and offers a much more exciting open-air view.

  View of Sydney Tower from Hyde Park.

 

Bondi Beach: Have Fun at the Beach

Bondi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Sydney and runs about one kilometer in length.  Go for a swim, bake in the sun, indulge in water sporting and beach volleyball there.  It is best to settle for the beach’s northern end, where the waters are generally safe for everyone.  The southern end is considered dangerous, because of the rip current called the “Backpacker’s Express” that runs through it.  It is only recommended for the experienced swimmers, as well as surfboarders. You can reach the beach via a bus ride from the Bondi Junction, which arrives every10 minutes or so.

Bondi Beach.

 

Art Gallery of New South Wales: Go for a Cultural Visit

One of the most important attractions in Sydney is the Art Gallery of New South Wales, which is one of the largest art galleries in the country.  It features a collection of Australian, European, and Asian art dating from the settlement days.  The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.  You can reach it by train to the St James and Martin Place stations, then a roughly 10-minute walk.

Art Gallery of New South Wales.

 

Dinner Time

You may move for a memorable dinner at the superb restaurants all over the city. Cafe Sydney (31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay) offers the best dining experiences in the area.

Cafe meals.

 

Day Two

Sydney Opera House

Your next 24 hours in Sydney can be used to discover the city’s other attractions.  A site you should never miss is the inimitable Sydney Opera House It is an icon not only of Sydney but also of the whole country.  There you can see its distinctive architecture, which has earned the Pritzker Award, the highest honor in the field.  It is also a multi-venue performing arts center in which you can watch top performing arts companies in action.

Sydney Opera House.

 

Circular Quay: Relax at One of Sydney’s Most Exciting Areas

The Circular Quay is one of the most popular tourist areas in the city and is located by the northern edge of the Sydney central business district.  It is mainly comprised of parks, restaurants, walkways, and pedestrian malls.  The area is also known as a focal point for community celebrations, and if you’re lucky, you’ll arrive in time for such events.

Circular Quay.

 

Hyde Park: A Walk in the Park

A perfect place to relax in Sydney is the Hyde Park, which is located on the eastern side of the Sydney central business district.  It is a 16-hectare park comprised of landscaped gardens, trees, and historical sites.  Take a leisurely walk through the park or take a picnic with friends and family.  Don’t forget, though, to see the various monuments scattered all over the place.  One of the most popular sights there is the Archibald Fountain, which commemorates Australia’s contributions during the First World War.

Hyde Park.

 

Surry Hills: Shop Till You Drop

You can have some unforgettable shopping experience at Surry Hills, which you can find south of the city center.  Its main street, Crown Street, features a line of chic boutiques and fashion shops, such as Marc Jacobs and G-Star.  Another shopping hub is Castlereagh Street, which is considered as Sydney’s designer row.  One of the most popular malls there is David Jones, which has shops selling Australian and international fashion items.

Sopping in Australia.

 

 

 

About the Author

 Mahy Medhat

A storyteller with a wanderlust desire, who loves exploring the world with a penchant for culture and food. Mahy has been writing for numerous high-profile magazines and currently working on publishing her own book.

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