There are amazing buildings and breathtaking views in the vibrant city of Sydney, Australia. Both new and old cultures are blended in Sydney. Getting here is possible from anywhere at the Sydney International Airport. From there any destination is easily reached either by hiring a car or using a private car service.
If you do hire a car to get you around, make sure you read the rental agreement properly so that you know exactly what you will be liable for if you should have an accident. Most specialist insurance products such as car gap insurance and breakdown insurance will generally be taken care of by the hire car company so you do not need to worry about these things. Always ask for details of who to call if you are unlucky enough to break down, and ensure the cover you are getting is for 24-hour call-outs!
With a properly insured car you can relax and explore this lively and extraordinary city. What follows indicates some of Sydney's main attractions.
Sydney Opera House - The Sydney Opera House is actually more than just an opera house. It have five different performance spaces which include dramatic arts, the opera theatre and concert hall. In addition, the courtyard area is the site for concerts and festivals.
Global recognition for this building is guaranteed almost everywhere. The roof of this modern landmark has over 1 million tiles that are two colours. You can take a guided tour of the Opera house or you can follow the path that winds around the magnificent building.
Bondi Beach - Bondi Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the country. It is crescent shaped and more than a half mile long. Here the 2000 Olympic Beach Volleyball was held. A cliff-top walk starting from here will take you from the awesome Bondi to Coogee. Enjoy the fascinating Sunday markets and taste the delights of the many restaurants and cafes.
Museum of Contemporary Art - The Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in a stunning Art Deco building. The collection is extensive with over 7,000 pieces and there are four floors of temporary exhibits and one floor that houses the permanent exhibits.
This is the place to see sculptures, post modern art and contemporary Aboriginal art.The permanent collection includes works from Hockney, Warhol and Christo. Each day offers free tours; a cafe is also available.
Sydney Harbour Bridge - The Sydney Harbour Bridge, known to the locals as the Coat Hanger, was the longest single span bridge in the world at the time it was constructed in 1932. The 1,605 foot span carries two train tracks and eight traffic lanes. The story of how the bridge was constructed is revealed in a film showing at the Pylon Lookout Museum. Both pedestrians and cyclists can cross the bridge for free.
Bridgeclimb - The Bridgeclimb is for the adventurous who want to see a panoramic view of Sydney. You get to climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge which is a city landmark. To see the matchless view from the top you will first have to haul yourself up all of 1,337 steps.
In addition you will receive a free group photo of the climb. To do the complete tour and climb you should allow yourself at least three and a half hours. There is an express climb that takes about two hours if you are in a hurry. Either the evening or the day is suitable for the climb. Only people older than ten are permitted to start the climb.
Manly Beach - Manly Beach was Australia's first resort area and offers a carefree relaxed environment. Fine restaurants and a buzzing nightlife make this the place to visit for some fun. There is no shortage of interesting pubs and art galleries here.
The beach is on a peninsula surrounded by the ocean, Sydney Harbour National Park and the Harbour. If you visit Sydney in the first week of June, you can enjoy the Food and Wine Festivals; in October the Manly Jazz Festival is held.
Taronga Zoo - The Taronga Zoo has been open since 1916. This superb zoological garden boasts over 4,000 animals.. From this position the view of Sydney Harbour is breathtaking. Whilst you are here you can have your picture taken with a koala. The delights of the Bird Show and the Seal Show are evidenced by the large crowds they always attract. You can see tropical birds from Papua New Guinea and Northern Australia in the rainforest aviary.
Sydney Tower Centrepoint - The Sydney Tower Centrepoint is the highest observation deck in the southern hemisphere. At 1,000 feet it is the tallest structure in Sydney. The great sweeping view from the Blue Mountains to Wollongong will become visible. It has a 35,000 gallon water tank to fortify the tower from high winds. You also get to see the OzTrek which is a virtual tour of Australia.
There are two revolving restaurants where you can enjoy fine food and a great ever changing view. Each year athletes race against each other to be the first to get to the tower's top.
Sydney will captivate you with its vibrancy, places to visit and nightlife. No-one visiting Australia should miss this.
This short city guide was provided by the UK's leading gap insurance and car warranty specialists – the Click4Group.