Darling Harbour
The pulse point of Sydney, Darling Harbour is situated a few minutes away from central Sydney and is accessible by car, ferry, bus, lightrail and monorail. It is one of the world's greatest water front destinations. Formerly a dockland area Darling Harbour has been transformed into a harbourside complex of shops, restaurants and parks. This multi-million dollar facelift has created many world class attractions which include:

Sydney Aquarium features interesting marine exhibits. The main attraction is the walk-through oceanarium where one can observe fishes and marine life swimming by as one walks through glass tunnels. You can also watch divers handfeeding sharks. The Dolphinarium is another superb attraction at the aquarium.  

Chinese Garden though located right in the middle of things transports you to a peaceful and tranquil world.

Panasonic Imax Theatre for the greatest and most powerful film experience that one can imagine. The crystal clear images and the high quality sound excite the senses, giving a never before experience.

Powerhouse Museum has exhibits describing human achievements in science, technology, arts and day-to-day living.

Sega World the indoor family theme park.

Cockle Bay Wharf has come up anew on the eastern side of Darling Harbour and is an important link to the city. It offers three levels of terraces, waterfront promenades, al fresco cafes and five star restaurants. 

The shopping complex with 100 specialty shops, 8 waterfront restaurants and terrace cafes; the nightly laser shows and the aqua magic, based on aboriginal myths, make this harbour side a lively recreational and commercial hub.   

Myvaluetravel Notes :

• Day tours and special ghost tours at Darling Harbour are available during the night. 
• A cruise in the harbour is a must to get oriented to the city.  

Sydney Harbour Bridge  
Completed in 1932 the Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world's largest steel arch span bridge carrying 08 lanes of traffic plus two rail tracks. It has a span of 503 meters and carries an average of 1,60,000 vehicles a day. Affectionately called the "coat hangers" by Sydney residents, the bridge offers spectacular views of the city. 

A walk across the bridge to Milson's Point gives opportunities to enjoy the views. Both the sides of the path have a very high fencing, hence it is very safe for the children to walk along without the danger of tripping off or coming in the way of the speeding traffic. The harbour may be seen from the Pylon Lookout (open 1000hrs to 1700hrs every day) as well. The steps are very wide so again it is safe for children and older people. There is also an exhibition and gift shop inside which shows how the bridge was constructed.

The Sydney Tower
Sydney Tower Observation Level is located in the AMP Centrepoint Tower. Located at 100 - Market Street it is 305 metres above the city. The Sydney Tower is the highest public building in the Southern Hemisphere and offers a spectacular 360º  view of Sydney and the magnificent harbour, from it's observation level and the revolving restaurant. 

There is also a gift shop on the deck and a snack/coffee bar on the level below which is easily accessible via a staircase. Recently refurbished and with 140 specialty stores, The Centrepoint Shopping Centre  is located directly below the tower and offers four fabulous levels of fun, food and fashion right in the heart of the city.

Myvaluetravel Notes : 

• The Sydney Tower should be visited at least twice - Once during the day (a clear day with blue skies) and once in the evening. The views during the day and night are as varied as Sydney's many characteristic traits. It is said that one can see the Blue Mountains, which are 90 kms away, on a clear day
• The entry price for the Observation Deck includes guided tours, use of high powered binoculars, visitors information and reservation services and a VIP Discount Shopping Card to be enjoyed throughout The Centrepoint Shopping Centre.
• The tower is classified as one of the safest buildings in the world.

Circular Quay
Southeast of the Opera House lies the famous Circular Quay which is the departure point for cruises and ferries to all parts of the Sydney Harbour. Something is always going on here, be it morning, afternoon or evening. You may find a musician, a comedian, magician or any other act under the sun. Visit the Tourist Information Desk and climb to the top of the overseas passenger terminal to view the Harbour and Opera House. The quay offers dining at relaxed cafes. A walk around the Circular Quay will bring you to the Opera House on one side and in the other direction you will approach the southern pylon of the Sydney Bridge.

Myvaluetravel Notes: 
The best views of the Harbour are from the water itself. There are regular ferries and JetCats from the quay and they take you to Neutral Bay, Mosman, Kirribilli or Taronga Zoo. You can also reach Manly Beach by ferry.
The Harbour Lights cruise is very highly recommended for it's breathtaking night time views of the harbour, bridge, Opera House, Darling Harbour and more. There are many other cruises as well offering a buffet and entertainment. A cruise on the Harbour is a must.

Hyde Park
Formed in 1810 the Park still retains it glory. Once inside, you'll see the Pool of Remembrance, the Anzac Memorial as well as water fountains. The park is very clean and well cared for and the beautiful foliage provides an ideal place for picnics. In fact the Hyde Park is where you can observe the Sydney residents on the working days, as many office and shop workers take their lunch-time breaks there.
The night makes the park even more attractive. The trees by the paths are lit up by thousands of white lights, bringing to mind Christmas trees and making for a very beautiful and well lit park. The night also brings Possums with it. They're nocturnal and very tame but stroking them might be a mistake!!!

The Rocks 
On Sydney harbourside adjacent to the circular quay is situated "The Rocks". This historical site is reminiscent of Sydney's first European settlement which was set up in 1788. The Rocks is a maze of original cobblestone lanes housing many beautifully restored buildings. It's a popular spot among visitors who enjoy the present day leisure activities in this picturesque town. The elegantly restored buildings house a wide variety of restaurant, entertainment venues, old pubs and specialty shops.

Royal Botanic Garden
Located between the Harbour and the very popular Mrs. Macquarie's Lane, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a shaded and fragrant retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Immaculately maintained 30 hectares of lawns house exotic native trees, shrubs and flowers. It has a herbarium, a pyramid glass house, kiosks and  restaurants.Founded in 1816 the gardens are the site of Australia's first farm. The gardens are ideal for a picnic and a relaxing walk. 

Myvaluetravel Notes : 

• One can also hop onto a sightseeing 'train' for a guided tour, indulge in a walk with a tour guide or a self guided walk.

Olympic Village
Since 1993; when Australia won the bid for the XXVII Olympic Games and IX Paralympic Games; the Homebush Bay has been redeveloped and the Olympic Village has come up. The sheer size of the village can be estimated by the 760 hectares Sydney Olympic Park with a seating facility of 1,10,000. The village also houses a Showground Exhibition Centre, the Bicentennial Park, the State Sports Centre, Stadium Australia, the International Aquatic Centre and an Athletic Centre.

Beaches
Sydney's beach suburbs are a must do for every visitor. To the north and the south are white, sandy beaches which are very easily accessible. Within the harbour are the Balmoral, Neilsen Park and Camp Cove. For surfing there are the famous beaches of Bondi, Bronte, Coogee in south and  Manly, Collaroy and Palm beach in the north.