Sydney

Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 4.28 million.[1] Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales, and is the site of the first European colony in Australia, established in 1788.

There's no place in the world like Sydney – the shining star of the southern hemisphere with the world's most beautiful harbor. Sydney is a major international tourist destination notable for its beaches and twin landmarks. The stunning Sydney Opera House and Sydney harbor Bridge are the pride and joy, but there's much more on offer. Besides the harbor lies The Rocks, a historic quarter of Sydney which was the site of the first colonial settlement.

The Rocks is now home to colorful characters, residents and artists as well as The Sydney Visitor Center – a good place to explore the city's rich blend of dining, shopping, recreation and sight-seeing options. Visitors should also take time to explore Sydney's surroundings, such as its National Parks, the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Wine Country.

Sydney is in a coastal basin bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Blue Mountains to the west, the Hawkesbury River to the north and the Woronora Plateau to the south. Sydney lies on a submerged coastline, where the ocean level has risen to flood deep river valleys, ria carved in the hawkesbury sandstone. One of these drowned valleys, Port Jackson, better known as Sydney harbor, is the largest natural harbor in the world.