Things to do in Sydney

bookings@cityresort.com.au

You shouldn't have to sit around bored stiff when your in Sydney. There's plenty to see and do if you know where go! Take these for starters..

Blue Moutains Day Trip

If you're after spectacular scenery and great bush walking tracks, set a day aside to visit the Blue Mountains. About 2 hours to the west of the city, the Blue Mountains is a World Heritage listed mountain range with many famous attractions, including the Three Sisters, spectacular 300 metre cliffs and the world's steepest railway ride. Hiking is extremely popular and the gardens are also a highlight with many open in spring and autumn. Tours can be booked at the reception desk.

Hunter Valley Wineries

Renown for its wineries and idyllic rural environment, Hunter Valley is the perfect getaway for any traveller. Activities include: wine tasting, cheese tasting. Tours can be booked at reception.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

This is a great way to take in Sydney's east coast. This popular walk, which can be divided into two stages, heads south from the promenade of Bondi Beach. It is mostly level, or gently sloping and combines beautiful coastal views, swimming opportunities and café stops. To get there from City Resort Hostel, exit the hostel towards the right (Palmer St) and follow the road to the end where it meets Oxford St (about 7mins walk). Take the 380, 381, 382 or L82 bus and they all take you to Bondi Beach. The bus ride takes about 30mins.

Tour the Sydney Opera House

For the first time ever, visitors to the Sydney Opera House can now see as well as hear the dramatic story of the building with the introduction of a completely new visitor experience, The Essential Tour. On the tour, guests will be immersed in the story of Australia's national icon and be given an insight into the special magic moments that take place at the Sydney Opera House everyday. Book online at www.sydneyoperahouse.com or in person at the Guided Tours Desk, within the Sydney Opera House. For more information call 02 9250 7250.

Art Gallery of New South Wales

This place is Sydney's leading museum of art exhibiting a prestigious permanent collection of Aboriginal, Australian, European, Asian and contemporary art as well as over 30 temporary special exhibitions annually. Admission is free open daily from 10am ~ 5pm. There are free guided tours Tuesday to Sunday @ 11am, 1pm & 2pm. Check it out @ Art Gallery Road, The Domain Sydney (near the Botanical Gardens). Web: www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au.

The Rocks Market

This market features a diverse range of art & photography, jewellery, Indigenous art, gourmet food and much more. Housed under a unique canopy, the all-weather market is home to over 150 stalls every weekend from 10am to 5pm. Located at northern end of George St & Playfair St The Rocks. Web: www.rocksmarket.com.au.

Sydney Observatory

If you're interested in astronomy this is a must see. Built in 1858, it's Australia's the oldest observatory and one of the most significant sites in the nation's scientific history. You can see the virtual reality 3D space theatre show, participate in a tour or just gaze at the stars. Night tours are about $15 per person. For bookings: 9241 3767. Address: Watson Rd Observatory Hill. Web: www.sydneyobservatory.com.au.

Visit Manly by ferry

Manly is one of Sydney's most attractive beach suburbs and is home to Oceanworld aquarium, Manly Art Gallery & Museum, and the hip Manly Wharf shopping and dining complex. Ferry or the speedy JetCat is a great way to get there from Circular Quay, taking about 30mins to get there. For more information, check out www.manly.nsw.gov.au or www.manlytourism.com.