Splash Out in Sydney

Giraffes at the Taronga Zoo with the Sydney skyline behind them.

by Sam Vogts

Sydney's attractions are internationally celebrated and although not all are free, the experience is worth more than the ticket.

Sydney Harbour Bridge, or as locals say "the Coathanger", is a world-class sight. To experience the amazing structure in style, check out BridgeClimb, which takes you on a walk right over the arch.

If you're not up for BridgeClimb or want to see Sydney from an even higher point, the Observation Deck of Sydney Tower is perfect. Found on Market Street, the tower is the first to see the sun rise and set and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Australia is known for its amazing wildlife and Darling Harbour's Sydney Aquarium and Wildlife World offer an awesome variety of land and water animals. The Aquarium has over 11,000 aquatic animals in its care and offers a touch pool for the more daring visitor. Next door at Wildlife World you'll find all of Australia's land animals in their natural environment and get the chance to cuddle a Koala. If you want to see more take a ferry to Sydney's Taronga Zoo.

A trip to the world-famous Opera House is an absolute necessity when in Sydney. A guided walk through the famous sails, accompanied by the dramatic story of the building's history is an unforgettable experience. The Opera House is also home to many bars and restaurants and hosts regular free concerts on the forecourt during summer.

Events

Sydney boasts a bustling entertainment scene, offering festivals, events and markets throughout the year.

To find out what's on pick up an entertainment guide or check out Sydney's official website (http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/).

Events and Festivals

Sydney hosts some of the world's most famous festivals and events and these are great to work into your itinerary. But if none fit, don't worry! Sydney's love of entertainment means there'll always be something happening.

Sydney Festival in January offers about 80 events over three weeks, featuring hundreds of artists performing visual arts, theatre and music, among other talents. A lot of the entertainment is free and other tickets are reasonably priced.

In February and March, the world's biggest gay festival, Sydney Mardi Gras, promises excitement and fun over a range of events. Tickets to the main parties are quite expensive but there are many smaller events and the free street parade through the heart of Sydney's gay scene, Darlinghurst, is an unforgettable day.

City to Surf, in August, is a popular 14km run that attracts about 50,000 participants each year. The run starts at Hyde Park and finishes at Bondi Beach. Entries open in May so sign up soon to take part. http://citytosurf.sunherald.com.au

Australia's biggest jazz festival, the Manly Jazz festival in October, offers three days of great music. The festival is held over Labour Day Weekend and takes place on Manly Wharf supplying beautiful ocean views while you listen.

Markets

Like all Australian cities, Sydney is well-known for its interesting markets found all around the city.

The Rocks Markets at George Street are open weekends and offer affordable arts and great gift ideas.

Open on the first Saturday of every month, the Surrey Hills Markets are perfect for those who love second hand and recycled goods.

If you're interested in local art head to Manly Arts and Crafts Markets, open every weekend at The Corso on Sydney Road.

The Glebe Markets (January 9-March 27) open their doors every Saturday between 10am and 5pm offering a great variety of products from foreign foods and goods to Australian made specialities.

Sydney's Top 10

Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you're struggling to choose or don't have much time in Sydney here are the top ten attractions you should definitely see:

1. Sydney Opera House
Location: Bennelong Point.
Cost: Tours range from $20 (the Essential Tour) - $150 (the Backstage Tour). Performances vary.

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge walk
or BridgeClimb
Location: BridgeClimb: 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks. Bridge walk: starting at the southern end of the bridge, The Rocks.
Cost: BridgeClimb: $198-$295. Bridge walk: Free.

3. Bondi and Manly beaches
Location: Bondi: Sydney's east coast. Manly: 7km north of Sydney.
Cost: Free.

4. Darling Harbour
Location: Darling Harbour.
Cost: Regular free entertainment.

5. Sydney Tower Observation Deck
Location: Corner of Pitt and Market Streets.
Cost: Adult: $25.

6. Royal Botanic Gardens
Location: Just south of Sydney Harbour.
Cost: Free.

7. Wildlife World
Location: Darling Harbour.
Cost: Adult tickets start from $31.95.

8. Sydney Aquarium
Location: Darling Harbour.
Cost: Adult tickets start from $31.95.

9. The Rocks
Location: Central Sydney.
Cost: Free.

10. Surrey Hills and Manly Arts and Crafts Markets
Location: Surrey Hills: Corner Crown and Little Collins Streets, Shannon Reserve. Manly Arts and Crafts: Sydney Rd and Market Lane, Manly.
Cost: Free.