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| City Guide - Sydney - Sightseeing | ||
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Sightseeing Who can argue with the claim that Sydney has the most magnificent natural harbour in the world? Millions of years ago it was a drowned river valley; today, its intricate coastal geography of headlands and secluded bays is the stunning setting for some of the modern world's most ambitious architectural achievements - the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that much tourist attention is focused on the harbour, with the revived cobbled quaintness of the Rocks, the perpetual motion of people arriving and departing Circular Quay and the enduring awe that visitors experience at the steps to the Sydney Opera House. But behind these modern monoliths, there is a wealth of history, culture and tradition. In inner-city Sydney, Macquarie Place and Macquarie Street are characterised by their imposing Victorian banking chambers and municipal buildings, while further afield, the areas of Kings Cross, Darlinghurst and Paddington are thriving cosmopolitan communities each with their own distinct character. Kings Cross, renowned more for its red light district, has a bustling café society, while Darlinghurst comes alive every March for the world-famous Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. Paddington has a more genteel feel, with its fashionable restaurants, galleries, antique shops and restored Victorian terraces complete with wrought-iron lace verandahs. Tourist Information Sydney Visitor Centre 106 George Street, The Rocks Tel: (02) 92 55 17 88 or 132 077 (visitor information line, Australia only). Fax: (02) 99 31 14 90. E-mail: visitmail@tourism.nsw.gov.au Web site: www.tourism.nsw.gov.au Opening hours: 0900-1800 daily. Passes The Rocks Ticket (A$46), which includes a Harbour Highlights Cruise or a Sundowner Cruise, a pancake meal at Pancakes on the Rocks, a half-hour guided Rocks Walking Tour, and entry to the Museum of Contemporary Art, can be bought from the Sydney Visitor Centre. The Sydney Bonus Pass incorporates entry to Sydney Aquarium, entry to the observation deck at the AMP Tower and a Captain Cook Coffee Cruise from Circular Quay. Tickets are available from any of these attractions, and cost A$39 for adults and A$29 for children. The Super Ticket (A$29.90) covers Darling Harbour attractions including Matilda Harbour Express cruise, entry to Australian National Maritime Museum, entry to the Chinese Garden, travel on the monorail, a meal at the Shark Bite Café, entry to the Sydney Aquarium, and discounts at the Powerhouse Museum, Australian National Maritime Museum and People Movers. The Zoo Pass includes return ferry and bus transport to Taronga Park Zoo, entry to the zoo, and an aerial cable ride. Tickets cost A$21, and are available from the Sydney Ferries ticket office at Circular Quay. |
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