Sydney

Backpacking Sydney

Information on Sydney, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.

Sydney, it's spectacular, it's exciting, it's fast-paced, it's vibrant and is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Sydney is Australia's largest city and is the Capital of the State of New South Wales. The city is the gateway for most people visiting the country, including several hundred thousand backpackers who come here each year. Sydney has some of the world's most famous landmarks, like the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House. It also has one of the most spectacular and beautiful harbors and some of the most stunning and famous beaches anywhere on this planet. The city has so much else to offer. It has a fantastic cafe scene, including some of the best coffee you will ever find. There is such a diversity of food available, where you can experience the taste of literally every country on this planet, in places ranging from small family owned eateries, to the most award winning restaurants in the world. If you like to shop, there are so many opportunities for you. There are unique markets, major shopping centers, pedestrian malls and shopping strips scattered right throughout the city. You will find amazing fashions, the finest local produce and fairly much anything else you could desire. Sydney is also known as the party capital of Australia, with many great nightclubs, bars, pubs, dance parties, live music venues and major music festivals worth visiting or attending. In addition to this, there are always plenty of cultural activities, major events and other festivals occurring right throughout the year. You never need to spend a night at home, unless you want to. Sydney is a very culturally diverse place and you can find pockets of so many nationalities scattered around the city. Some of the most popular areas include China Town in Haymarket, or Little Italy in Leichhardt. Although this is a fairly young city in world standards (just over 200 years old), it still has a fascinating history and exploring The Rocks area is one of the best places to gain an understanding about this. If you want to escape the city for a moment, you don't need to go too far. There are several beautiful and spectacular national parks scattered throughout the city, even as close as on the shores of Sydney Harbor. Sydney also has some of the loveliest parks and gardens you will find anywhere and most are located right in the heart of the city and along the foreshore of Sydney Harbor and adjoining waterways. Meanwhile, on the coast, beach communities such as Bondi and Manly are the cradle of an outdoorsy, active and yet laid-back lifestyle that has become the quintessential Australian identity. After a lazy Saturday at the beach, urbane Sydneysiders have a disco nap, hit the showers and head out again. There's always a new restaurant to try, undercover bar to hunt down, hip band to check out, sports team to shout at, show to see or crazy party to attend. The people make Sydney what it is; Sydneysiders are very friendly people and are renowned for their open mindedness. So come and see what it is all about for yourself, you won't be disappointed.