Cruises from Sydney

Foodies will love Sydney’s international food scene. From ritzy waterfront restaurants to laid-back eateries along one of Sydney’s “eat streets,” the city has it all. For an after-dinner drink, it’s hard to beat a cocktail in one of the sky bars located atop its many skyscrapers. If you’re looking for a gourmet meal in a setting like nowhere else, head to Sixpenny or Bennelong, an elegant restaurant located inside the Sydney Opera House.

Sydney Harbour was originally the home of the aboriginal tribes of Australia. With the arrival of Britain’s First Fleet in 1788, the city of Sydney (named after Lord Sydney, the British Home Secretary at the time) was established as a penal colony of Great Britain. By 1840, the transportation of convicts to the city had ceased. A decade later, the population of the city grew exponentially after a local gold rush. 

Up until 1900, Sydney was the capital of New South Wales, a British colony. But after the Commonwealth of Australia was established in 1901, Sydney became the capital of the state of New South Wales, which joined the Australian Federation. The wild and harsh start of colonial Sydney is now long in the past. Today, you’ll find a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with one of the most diverse populations in the world.

You will find an assortment of shopping malls near the Sydney cruise port. Some of the largest are Westfield Sydney, The Galeries, and World Square. For local boutiques, head to the intersection of Oxford Street and Glenmore Road. In the neighborhood of Paddington, you’ll find shops with cutting-edge fashion from new designers. For souvenirs and art, head to The Rocks near the Sydney Opera House, or the Strand for Australian hats and boots. 

Sydney has a variety of public transportation options. Its extensive bus route system goes to many of the most popular tourist sites, plus there are a light rail and ferry service. In addition, the Sydney Metro provides fast, frequent service around the city. As for taxis, you’ll find them waiting right outside the Sydney cruise terminal, as well as in taxi ranks all around the city.

Australia’s official currency is the Australian dollar. The paper bills come in increments of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Credit cards are widely accepted, but traveler’s checks are not. Tipping isn’t expected in Australia, but is appreciated. If you do tip, a smaller amount around 10% is usually acceptable.