Sydney is one of the most visited cities in Australia with neighborhoods which have something special to offer to everyone. No matter if you are coming here for business or a family holiday, you will easily find things to do and see from art shows on the beach to the best restaurants in the world. So, if you are heading to this Australian metropolis, here are top Sydney neighborhoods that should definitely be on your travel bucket list.

The Rocks

The Rocks is a neighborhood where modern Sydney was born when an old convict suburb was turned into a hub for creative crowd. There are daily tours here that will tell you all about the shady history of this neighborhood and its many urban legends. Also, they are a nice opportunity to see colonial structures which dominate the architectural environment in the Rocks.

There are many cool places to check out when in the area. Rocks Market is the perfect place to get some of the locally grown products while cafés under Harbour Bridge are ideal to take a break from sightseeing. If you are interested in modern art, the Museum of Contemporary Art will show you collections from artists from all over the world. In the evenings, you can go to the Sydney Observatory or on a ghost tour through the dark history of the Rocks’ dark lantern-lit laneways.

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is more than a place where you go to catch some sun and enjoy various water sports, the most popular one being surfing. There are many classy restaurants along the coastline offering state of the art cuisine from local chefs. Of course, just walking and eating gelato from one of the premium stores will help you relax when sightseeing in Sydney.

Probably the most iconic landmark here is Bondi Icebergs swimming pools located right on the beach. These saltwater pools are part of the Bondi Icebergs Club where you can also grab something to eat and enjoy the amazing view over the ocean and Sydney. This is also a great place to come with kids since the club has a pool specially built for them so the whole family can have fun and relax.

Crows Nest

Crows Nest in the lower North Shore is the especially attractive neighborhood for business people. It’s due to its closeness to the commercial hub of the Central Business District and well-equipped accommodation Crows Nest has to offer. The abundance of Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants offer the best Asian cuisine in the whole city which is also perfect for casual business meetings or simply having a bite with friends and colleagues.  

However, this is also a popular neighborhood for aspiring artists thanks to the Cork and Canvas studio with the concept to paint and sip wine. Visitors can take classes led by professional artists regardless of their previous painting experience and knowledge. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxing, which makes it a popular spot to de-stress and express yourself creatively.

Surry Hills

When it comes to food, Surry Hills is the neighborhood you should visit first since it’s famous for the amazing cuisine available in local restaurants. This is also the favorite spot for all coffee lovers and you will sense the smell of roasted beans the moment you set foot in this neighborhood. However, Surry Hills is all about keeping a low profile so you will rarely see any flashy signs on the establishments here.

If you are a fan of vintage clothes, then Grandma Takes a Trip is a store with you unique things and you must stop by when in Surry Hills. Single O will make you one of the best coffees you ever had while Bills is a perfect place for breakfast after dancing all night at Play Bar.

Chippendale

Chippendale is another neighborhood in Sydney which was remodeled and modernized from its convict history. This is a small but versatile neighborhood that will treat you with the best pastry and fine-crafted sodas in the city. Stop by White Rabbit for tea, dumplings and modern Chinese artwork or go to Spice Alley for authentic Asian food.

However, Central Park which resembles the New York namesake is what makes this whole area burst with life and vibrancy. Here, the famous residential building One Central Park stands tall as the reminder of eco-friendly architecture with 250 species of flora planted on the façade. Various stores around the building are ideal for a shopping spree and bring modern elements to an old neighborhood.

Lastly

Sydney is a big city and it will take you days to see most of its landmarks to create a travel bucket list and start with these top Sydney neighborhoods. From the colonial architecture of the past to modern business centers, Sydney is one of a kind Australian metropolis which will easily win you over with its fusion of cultures. Just put on your comfortable shoes and get ready to be dazzled with its charms.