Sydney is a firm favourite with Brits looking to visit Australia. However, beyond knowing that the Opera House, Icebergs and Bondi Beach are must-sees, it can be hard to decide where to stay and what boroughs you need to be visiting. This handy area guide gives you the lowdown on some of this iconic city’s hippest areas.
The CBD
Sydney’s Central Business District initially looks just like every other city’s – all glistening towers and sleek lobbies. However, delve a little deeper and you’ll find that there’s a reason why almost every tourist spends a considerable amount of time here. The CBD is home to perhaps Sydney’s most famed attraction, the Opera House, and there are eateries (both affordable and otherwise) nearby that offer great views of this impressive structure. The area is also home to Sydney’s verdant botanical gardens a dash of green amongst the grey of the skyscrapers that surrounds it.
Bondi
Home to the famous Icebergs sea pool, Bondi is on almost every Brit’s Sydney bucket list, and with good reason. There’s that famous sweeping arc of golden sands where surfers and swimmers alike plunge into the deep blue sea and hip, healthy cafes hug the shorefront. However, if you’re looking for the true Aussie experience, this is probably not it – residents are overwhelmingly English and while it’s well worth a visit, it’s not deemed to be one of the cooler boroughs.
Buses run frequently from the CBD to Bondi making it an easy spot to get to.
Manly
Manly is less easily accessible than the other areas mentioned on this list; getting there requires catching a ferry from the CBD. However, the journey itself is a delight and passengers can often spot dolphins and the occasional whale frolicking alongside. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by a laid-back beachy vibe, thanks to the area’s own patch of sand and its buzzing wharf. Those looking for a good walk and some more secluded beaches should take on the Manly to Spit walk – just remember your trainers!
Surry Hills
Surry Hills is home to some of Sydney’s hippest eateries. Chow down on Middle Eastern fare for brunch at the ever popular Four ate Five, head to Chin Chin for Asian cuisine and a bloody good time or opt for smart Italian food at Bartolo. When you’re not cramming delicious delights into your face, go shopping at the area’s flea market or take a stroll through the Prince Alfred Park. Perched precariously close by to the CBD for such a hipster neighbourhood, Surry Hills is an easy spot to get to.
Newtown
Beer lovers rejoice, Newtown is home to some of Sydney’s most well-reviewed microbreweries. The area is one of Sydney’s more historic regions, with buildings from the 1800s through to today. Perhaps most iconic is the art deco rust-coloured Enmore Theatre, the longest standing live music venue in New South Wales. Elsewhere, intricate street art bedecks the external walls of many of the area’s establishments creating a cool, urban feel. Looking for an outfit that you aren’t likely to spot elsewhere? Newtown’s teeny boutiques and vintage stores will have you covered!
