Sydney's Allure

A city of energy, stunning views, stand-out architecture, fine arts and modern cuisine, Sydney possesses a multi-faceted identity. It's a beacon of culture that woos with its siren song of what's yet to be experienced.

Spend a day in this delightful city by indulging yourself in its foods, its sights and its sounds. From a morning spent viewing fine art to lunch at one of the city's best restaurants and an evening at the city's iconic opera house, you'll spend a day that's unusual, a day tailor-made for out-of-the-ordinary pleasures and pursuits.

Set the pace with a casual breakfast at the Gardens Cafe, a charming eatery located in the midst of the city's Royal Botanic Gardens, 30 hectares of open green space dotted with trees, shrubs and blooming flowers. The café is situated in a small grove of trees overlooking the duck pond.

After finishing breakfast, take a walk through the revitalizing grounds of the Botanic Gardens as you make your way toward the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Housed in a building that dates to 1885, the gallery showcases an outstanding collection of aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art as well as Asian art and 19th- and 20th-century Australian art. Admission is free for both the Botanic Gardens and the Art Gallery, making their appeal that much more pleasurable.

After you've wandered among the treasures at the gallery, it's time to head for the Sydney Tower and feast your eyes on the spectacular views afforded by the city's tallest building. It's about a 15-minute walk from the gallery to the tower. From the tower's observation deck, you can see the city skyline, the Sydney Harbour and Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the area's lovely beaches. Free telescopes assist in providing a bird's-eye view, and the tower's OzTrek takes guests on a simulated ride across Australia's geography.

For lunch, treat yourself to one of the two- or three-course prix fixe meals at the elegant Quay restaurant, located on the upper level of the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay West in The Rocks district. You'll be treated like royalty at this classy dining room that serves modern Australian cuisine and offers stunning views of the Harbour and Opera House. To be sure you get a seat, make a reservation in advance. Another option is Waterfront Restaurant, serving exceptional Australian cuisine and located waterside in The Rocks at 27 Circular Quay West.

When you're full and well-rested, take a stroll through The Rocks historic neighborhood, the city's birthing spot that now hosts a bevy of boutiques, restaurants, pubs and a weekend open-air market.
 
Next, head for the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge (about a 10-minute walk). Known by locals as "The Coat Hanger," this architectural masterpiece was completed in 1932 and spans 503m. If you take to the pedestrian walkways, allow at least 30 minutes for a one-way crossing. Stop at the southeastern Pylon Lookout if you want to get an excellent view of the magnificent Sydney Harbour. You can take the train back (to Wynward, change to Circular Quay).

From Circular Quay, it's a five- to seven-minute walk to the Sydney Opera House. The singular symbol that's most closely associated with Sydney, the Opera House includes not only opera, but ballet, choir and theatre companies as well. The tour takes one hour, offering guests a glimpse behind the scenes. The last tour departs at 4:30pm.

By now, it's time to head back to your hotel to freshen up for the evening. You're going to Aria, an elegant restaurant in East Circular Quay, and then on to the Opera House, so dress to impress.

Located on Macquarie Street, Aria affords outstanding views of the Opera House and Harbour. At this upscale spot, you'll dine on innovative, modern Australian cuisine amid an interior that's warm and sophisticated with leather-upholstered walls, suede chairs and subtle lighting. A pre-theatre menu is perfect for dining before your show. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

With performances of all types happening throughout the year, the Sydney Opera House is sure to offer something you'll enjoy. Remember to book early to avoid disappointment. Most performances start between 6:30pm and 8pm, so adjust your schedule earlier in the day to adequately accommodate the starting time, and be sure to arrive a bit early.

Enjoy every minute of your day, and drink in the pleasures that are Sydney's alone to give.