Quick facts about Sydney, Australia from Carhire3000
Sydney - quick facts
The Australian summer runs from December to February. Generally, January is the warmest month to visit Sydney whilst July is the coolest.
There are 3 time zones in Australia - Sydney uses Eastern Standard Time (EST). Australia also has “Daylight Saving”, where the clocks are wound forward an hour - in Sydney and New South Wales this applies from the end of October to the beginning of April.
The electrical current in Australia is 220-240 volts.
Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, built on the site of the first British colony.
One of its most famous landmarks is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, opened in 1932, giving Sydney the nickname “The Harbour City”. More information and stunning views of the bridge can be found at Pylon Lookout or climb the bridge for a simply unforgettable experience.
The Rocks is one of the most visited sites in Sydney. Described as the” birthplace of Sydney”, you’ll find a maze of cul-de-sacs and courtyards, where historic buildings sit next to vibrant modern cafes. Some of Sydney’s oldest pubs can be found here as can the Sydney Visitor Information Centre. Other attractions include the Colonial House Museum, Beckers Bridge and Cadman’s Cottage.
Previously a place of punishment for the early convict population, Fort Denison lies on a small island within Sydney Harbour - Guided heritage tour s to the island are now available.
Take the 10 minute ferry ride to Cockatoo Island, the biggest island in Sydney Harbour. Appreciate the fine views of the Harbour Bridge or take a tour around the old prison and shipyard.
Luna Park at Milsons Point is a restored 1930s amusement park with rides for all the family as well as fantastic views over the harbour.
Sydney Tower is the city’s tallest building. Great views of the city await at the top of the tower but your ticket also includes a virtual flight over Australia.
The Sydney Mint, completed in 1816, is one of Australia’s oldest buildings. Originally a public hospital, it became a coining factory when the British Secretary of State allowed the colonial government to operate the first Royal Mint outside England.
Sydney Opera House actually holds 5 theatres which host a variety of performances. There are regular guided tours which take you backstage to learn more about this world-renowned landmark.
Catch the perfect wave at Bondi Beach, just half an hour’s drive from the centre of where the surf crashes onto a white sand beach.
With a wide variety of both native and exotic animals, the Taronga Zoo is definitely worth a visit. But what makes it truly unique is its fantastic location, overlooking Sydney Harbour. To fully appreciate the skyline, take the Zoo Sky Safari cable car to the top of the hill.
The Blue Mountains, approximately 2 hours drive from Sydney, were declared a World Heritage Park in 2000. The mountains are covered by deep ravines and hazy blue eucalyptus trees and offer a wealth of adventure activities such as rock climbing and canyoning.
