Sydney, Australia

Sydney Australia, known as the Harbor City, has both a unique landscape, as well as a unique history. The sheltered harbor of Sydney Australia made Sydney an excellent home for indigenous peoples, and later a useful port for Europeans. On January 26^th, 1788, 11 ships from Britain arrived in Sydney Cove. Called the "First Fleet", these ships carried British soldiers, along with British prisoners, sent to establish a new colony. Modern Sydney still bears the mark of these early settlers. Some of Sydney's main streets run along the original trails carved out by European settlers.

Today, Sydney is known for its beautiful harbor, along with the Harbour Bridge that graces its waters. The Sydney Opera House is also a famous landmark for Australians and tourists alike, and an excellent stop on your Australia sightseeing journey. The Opera House is open year round, and features some of the best in world dance, music, and theatre. Travel in Sydney is not complete without touring the house, or maybe even seeing a show. You may even purchase tickets online when planning your trip. For travelers who are patrons of the arts, the Sydney Arts Festival is also a great option. Held each January during Australia's summer, this event is completely free of charge. The arts festival is an exciting way to experience both European and Indigenous tradition, along with music, dance, and arts from around the world.

Art from around the world can also be found in local shopping centers throughout Sydney. One of the most popular is the Queen Victoria Building. The Queen Victoria Building is a landmark in its own right, as well as being one of Sydney's premier shopping centers, both for personal and gift shopping.

Another of the more popular Sydney attractions, and a great stop as you continue Australia sightseeing in Sydney, is the beautiful stretch ofbeaches along the city's coast. Tourists come to Sydney from around the world to surf, sun bathe, and scuba dive in and around the waters of Sydney. Another popular activity as you travel in Sydney is a Harbour Cruise. Cruises are available for both lunch and dinner, and guests will have a chance to stroll and dine as they sail around the beautiful harbor.

For many travelers who are new to the city and looking for Sydney attractions, a tour of the city itself provides a great way to become familiar with all things Sydney. Free walking tour brochures are available, free of charge, and have been provided by the City of Sydney's Historical Program. Brochures can be found at any library or community center within the city of Sydney.

While taking your walking tour as part of your Australia sightseeing, you might happen to stroll by The Rocks, a section of Sydney once known for it's squalid and disease ridden condition. Things have changed since the days of the prison settlements, and modern day tourists will see none of the destitute buildings of the past. In the early 1970’s, The Rocks was completely renovated, to create one of the most charming neighborhoods for shopping and enjoying local cafes. The history alone makes this an interesting stop when visiting Sydney Australia.

These are just a few of the fun and interesting landmarks and activities to be enjoyed in Sydney, Australia. However you spend your time, you'll be sure to find many unique Sydney attractions and exciting things to do.