Australia: Sydney, the Red Centre & the East Coast

Arrival in Sydney

Arrive at any time into Sydney. Most international flights land in the morning, leaving a full afternoon to drop your bags and get your bearings. A central hotel makes it easy to explore on foot, with the main sights of the CBD, Darling Harbour, and Circular Quay all within reach.

Sydney Harbour & Manly Beach

Start the day with a walk through Sydney's central landmarks, making your way to Circular Quay. From there, the public ferry provides a classic crossing of the harbour to Manly, a beachside suburb with a distinct, laid-back feel. A well-marked coastal path leads from the main beach to the sheltered cove at Shelly Beach. For lunch, fish and chips on the sand is the standard.

A Free Day in the City

A full free day in Sydney presents a lot of options. You can explore the historic Rocks district on foot, home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, or get a different perspective on the harbour with a jet boat tour. For the best views, the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is a fixture, while tours of the Opera House are popular but often need to be booked well in advance.