The Rocks
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.7 miles]
The Rocks – the birthplace of European settlement in Australia – is atmospheric, quaint, vibrant and packed with great things to taste, see, buy and explore.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Best places to stay:
‘Young, ambitious and wealthy’ describes the target audience for this uber-stylish, 31-room boutique bolthole right in the heart of Sydney’s downtown.
Coolly ostentatious in the New York loft style, with Philippe Starck pieces in rooms and suites, it’s ideal for those who seek Sydney’s urban delights.
Tucked away down a side street, you’re in party central close to bars, theatres, restaurants and shops, with convenient transport at hand.
The central city location is excellent for sightseeing and exploring Sydney on foot. It’s strolling distance from big hitters like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Sydney Opera House.
The ferry dock on Circular Quay is also nearby – as is the city’s new light rail system.
This hotel is part of Sydney’s historic business district, where the surrounding city streets are dominated by office blocks. Streets generally are busy with people and traffic – more so during office hours – but it’s still pleasant, clean and safe.
Things quieten down at night too. Some of the city’s smartest restaurants, including Est. and Mr. Wong, are literally on the doorstep.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.7 miles]
The Rocks – the birthplace of European settlement in Australia – is atmospheric, quaint, vibrant and packed with great things to taste, see, buy and explore.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.7 miles]
A unique and unforgettable adventure offering breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and fascinating historical insights; the city’s ultimate must-do. One of the world’s great bucket list experiences.
Best for ages: 8+ | £110 | 2- 3 hours
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.8 miles]
One of the world’s great scenic walks – a one- to two-hour, wildlife-filled stroll that takes in Sydney’s harbour, the Opera House, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free | 1-2 hours
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[1 miles]
Venerable art gallery showcasing fine Australian, Aboriginal and Asian art in a scenic waterside setting, with over 30,000 works on show.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.4 miles]
This small museum, set in two former police courts and a former police station, was the original legal hub at the time of the settlers. Today it preserves the history of crime and punishment in the city, with exhibits on famous criminals, collections of weapons and restored prison cells.
Best for ages: 6+ | £7
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.4 miles]
Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) provides an exciting and fun introduction to the works of established and emerging artists from across Australia and the world.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.8 miles]
Every city has an aquarium these days, but this is a good one, and great for kids with specimens from the Great Barrier Reef.
Best for ages: 4+ | £32
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[1.1 miles]
Anyone interested in Australian history should head to this fascinating museum that showcases and explores Australia’s naval war history, Aboriginal history and its white settler history. Don’t miss the fully-restored, 19th-century tall ship the James Craig.
Best for ages: 8+ | £12
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
New South Wales, Australia
One of the world’s most dynamic and glamorous cities, with golden beaches, world-class eating and dining and effervescent, friendly people.