Barangaroo is an entirely new city district in the old container port terminal. Sydneysiders have embraced the best of modern design, and these interesting aesthetics play out at the likes of the new Ace Hotel, uncompromisingly hipster and worth ducking into for a drink and a rota of small plates. There are plenty of concerts and events taking place in 2023 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its opening. The Opera House is an instant symbol of the city - its sailboat design by Jørn Utzon epitomised the modern, confident Australia that emerged in the 20th century. The Bridge is popular with climbers who lap up the views, but even from down below, the arching steel structure manages to impress. Each sunrise and sunset, the rising and falling sun casts shadows over these marvels of engineering that seem to sit so perfectly within the natural wonder of the waters. The twin icons of the city are the stars of the one of the world’s most mesmerising harbours. Visit the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge Be sure to round off a morning of fresh air with an Aussie brunch of avocado and sourdough toast on the terrace at PCP at Paramount House, one of the city’s coolest new hotels. Hyde Park is a great spot for cyclists, or Goods Line - a 800m long linear park - is ideal for joggers. Do as the locals do and head out on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk - stopping for a swim in the calm waters of Gordon’s Bay, or sign up for surf lessons at the world-famous Bondi Beach.

Sydney just might be the most open-air city in the world - and with such an enviable climate, life is centred around being outside. Here, we round up all the things you should do and see on your first visit to one of Australia’s most exciting metropolises. Or try sunrise yoga at the North Sydney Olympic Pool, due to open in August following a restoration, to experience Sydney's strong focus on fitness and wellness. Then there’s its thriving food scene with a long list of new bars and restaurants, including Honey, a new spot supplying diners with the sounds and flavours of Korea. From the Opera House to Carriage works - an old railway yard transformed into cultural and concert halls - the city's icons of architecture and design give it a plethora of shapes and spaces which define it.

Barbecues flaming at dusk, music festivals, beautiful beaches, one of the world’s largest natural harbours - Sydney is a city that’s uniquely beautiful.

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