The Rocks
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.4 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:
For many decades the Four Seasons has been the benchmark for five-star luxury in Sydney. An extensive make-over has lifted this hotel to dizzying new heights.
Its legendary service is now coupled with sleek, new interiors and an expanded food and drink offering, including sophisticated high teas at Mode Kitchen & Bar and a fabulous selection of barrel-aged cocktails at the hotel’s Grain Bar.
One thing that hasn’t changed is the dress circle location, which gives guests unrivalled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay and Sydney Opera House.
The hotel is set in the northern end of the city’s CBD (Central Business District), surrounded by modern office buildings. The surrounding streets are pleasantly busy, but clean and very safe.
Just across the street is Circular Quay – a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of waterfront that includes the Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
Also opposite is ‘The Rocks’, Sydney’s original slum area which is now thoroughly gentrified and packed with cafes, old school pubs and small boutiques.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia[0.4 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[0.5 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[0.9 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[0.9 miles]
Magnetic, enchanting and still remarkably modern, this iconic Opera House is a must-see. Walk around the outside or book in for a guided tour or performance.
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[0.2 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[0.4 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[1 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[1.2 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.