Sydney

Sydney is a coastal metropolis in New South Wales, Australia, stretching between the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Blue Mountains to the west, and the Hawkesbury River to the north. The harbor cuts deep into the land and forms many bays, with ferries, parks, and walking paths running along the water.

A British penal colony began here in 1788 when Arthur Phillip founded a settlement with the First Fleet at Port Jackson. Gold finds in the mid-19th century turned the small outpost into a fast-growing trade center.

Every January a theater festival brings directors, dancers, and musicians from different countries to perform on outdoor stages scattered across the city. Locals gather at cafés and outdoor terraces in parks almost year-round, especially for weekend breakfast and lunch.

The central business district runs three kilometers (about 2 miles) south from Sydney Cove and holds banks, shopping centers, and company offices. Ferries from Circular Quay link the harbor suburbs and are often quicker than road transport during rush hour.

The area counts 120 beaches along its coastline, including the northern and southern shores of the Port Jackson harbor system. Nearly all main beaches have lifeguard patrols during summer months who recommend swimming between the red and yellow flags.

Location: New South Wales

Inception: January 26, 1788

Elevation above the sea: 58 m

Address: Sydney NSW, Australia

Website: https://australia.com/en-us/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-sydney.html

GPS coordinates: -33.86984,151.20828

Latest update: December 2, 2025 19:52