Sunny and stylish, energetic and inviting, Sydney shines all year round. Ferries, yachts, jetboats and harbour cruises share the sparkling waters framed by the world famous white sails of the Opera House and coathanger-like Harbour Bridge. The colonial sandstone warehouses of the lively Rocks district nestle at the foot of tall glass towers and contrast with the modernity of the neighbouring Darling Harbour with its vibrant Cockle Bay and King St Wharf restaurant precincts. Museums, galleries and theatres – there’s even a zoo with a view to explore.

The city’s suburbs showcase a similar diversity: catch a ferry to the relaxed golden sands of Manly, shop til you drop in trendy Paddington, learn to surf in Bondi, relax in one of the Eastern Suburbs’ cosmopolitan cafes, dance the night away in Darlinghurst or take a seaplane to lunch in one of the surrounding national parks.

A string of 22 golden beaches stretches from Manly to Palm Beach in Sydney's North. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the tranquil Pittwater waterway on the other, the Peninsula enjoys a relaxed beachside ambience only minutes from its world metropolis. Sail on Pittwater's calm waters or take a seaplane to picnic at one of its secluded beaches. Discover Aboriginal rock art in the Ku-ring-gai NP or browse the homewares shops and galleries of stylish Avalon. Enjoy a round of golf overlooking the ocean or a look around the weekend open air markets. Climb Palm Beach's northern headland to the Barrenjoey lighthouse or dive into Bilgola's clear blue surf. Enjoy a refreshing ale at the Newport Arms' beer garden or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc overlooking the Pacific Ocean from the balcony of Jonah's Whale Beach.

Ninety minutes west of Sydney lies the World Heritage Wilderness of the Blue Mountains National Park. Its dramatic sandstone cliffs, thundering waterfalls and eucalyptus forested gorges invite bushwalkers to stretch their legs. Its charming art deco cliff-top villages will entice you to wander their café lined streets. Its comfortable and welcoming guesthouses will make you want to stay a little longer.