There's a famous song about Australia that includes the words: "But no matter how far or how wide I roam / I still call Australia home." The song was used by the country's national airline, Qantas, for many years.
I've spent many years roaming the world, but my home town is Sydney. Although I don't live here any more, when I return and see the Opera House from the Harbour Bridge once again, I realize that I do miss my city. I love Sydney - there's something very special about it.
Explore the waterfront
If this is your first time in Sydney, you should start with the Sydney Opera House. It's a symbol of the city and of Australia, and one of the most incredible sights in the world. It's therefore no surprise that the Opera House is Australia's number-one tourist destination, with more than 8.2 million visitors a year. Be one of them!
Since it opened in 1973, the Opera House (we usually drop the word "Sydney") has been host to many of the world's greatest artists. There's opera, theatre and dance, musical performances, classical and rock music concerts, comedy shows - and everything in between, performed in spaces inside, outside and on the harbour. If you possibly can, book tickets to a show: it will be a highlight of your trip. (Google sydneyoperahouse.com to see what's on in 2023.)
As you approach it, the Opera House is a majestic sight. Set next to Sydney Harbour, with the Harbour Bridge nearby, the huge white sails of the Opera House shimmer in the sun. That view never gets old. Make sure you walk around the Opera House to the left and then behind it and around to the right. Taking a photo of yourself on the Opera House steps is a must for visitors.
There are guided tours of the Opera House, where you'll learn about the fascinating and controversial history of the building, including the renovations completed in 2022. You can also enjoy one of the many food options in and around the Opera House, ranging from fine dining at Bennelong, a restaurant set inside one of the sails, to the Opera Kitchen restaurant and the ever-popular Opera Bar, where you can eat outside and take in that beautiful view.
While you're in the area of the Opera House, explore the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden, one of my favourite places in the city. Established in 1816, this is the oldest botanic garden in Australia, with more than 27,000 plants native to the country and from around the world. The Royal Botanic Garden is located along Sydney Harbour, making it an urban garden right in the heart of the city. It's lovely to relax on the grass or eat in one of the restaurants or cafes.
Sail round the harbour
Another "must" in Sydney is to catch a ferry. The Opera House is only a short walk to Circular Quay, the city's main ferry terminal. You don't need to book an expensive harbour cruise: a ferry offers the ideal way to explore Sydney Harbour. Whichever harbour destination you choose, it will be a good one.
My favourite place to visit in the harbour is Manly, a beachside suburb that saw the birth of surfing in Australia. This is a great place to wander around; there's plenty to see and do - and eat! Another destination I recommend is Watsons Bay, home to Doyles on the Beach, a seafood restaurant directly by the sea that's famous for its fish and chips. It's a good idea to book in advance - the restaurant is very popular - although you can also take food away.
Also within easy reach by ferry is Taronga Zoo, home to more than 4,000 animals. This is a great day out, offering wonderful views of the harbour. I've been there many times over the years and each visit is a unique experience. At Circular Quay, another popular place to explore, you'll find the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art (check out mca.com.au for exhibitions in 2023) and the Rocks conservation area.
Full of history, the Rocks is where Sydney's early colonial settlers built their simple huts, perched among rocks on the hill above the harbour. While the village has now become a popular tourist destination, with many heritage buildings, markets and cafes to visit, it still retains its authentic character, with lots of highlights for a day out.