Visiting Sydney

With its sun-drenched beaches and shady parks, Sydney consistently rates as the world's best city to visit. The city is renowned for its outdoor lifestyle, physical beauty and friendly inhabitants.

One of Sydney's triumphs lies in having all its attributes - beaches and national parks, restaurants, nightlife and fine architecture - within easy reach of the city centre.

It also has Australia's most recognisable icons - the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney harbour.

You'll have plenty of choice when you arrive in Sydney. There's backstage tours of the Opera House or a climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the dramatic harbour and city.

You can take a leisurely sail or cruise on one of the world's most famous harbours or enjoy a dash and spin in a high-speed jet boat.

There are wildlife parks close to the city where you can see Australia's favourite animals or you can take the plunge and dive with sharks in a harbourside aquarium.

Sydney's surrounding areas

Within easy reach of Sydney are other iconic attractions. You'll find World Heritage-listed national parks with a rich diversity of landscapes - rainforests, mountains, outback, islands; great food and fine wine, classic beaches.

You'll find just as much choice in the regions close to Sydney. You can embrace the breathtaking views of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area from the Three Sisters lookout. Try tasting the world's best semillon in the Hunter Valley or the cool-climate wines of Southern Highlands.

You'll be inspired by the Grand Pacific Drive from the Royal National Park to North Wollongong, with its landmark Sea Cliff Bridge. For something different go kayaking with dolphins at Nelson Bay or re-energise and relax at a luxury spa in the Hunter Valley, Blue Mountains or Southern Highlands.

Must-dos in Sydney

• Climb the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Enjoy Sydney Harbour on a ferry, cruise, yacht or kayak
• Take a tour of the Sydney Opera House
• Learn to surf at Bondi or Manly beach
• See koalas and kangaroos at Taronga Zoo

Sydney enjoys about 300 sunny days a year, making it an ideal year-round destination. Australia's seasons are opposite those in the northern hemisphere, with summer officially starting in December and winter in June. September is springtime with an average maximum temperature of 68 degrees F (20 degrees C).

Getting around

Sydney's transport system comprises a rail, bus and ferry network. Additional transport options include water taxis, light rail and a monorail that links the city centre with Darling Harbour.

The Sydney Explorer Bus takes visitors to the city's top attractions and provides a lively commentary along the way. There are various attraction and travel passes as well as a wide range of exciting tours that give a behind-the-scenes insight into the city and its lifestyle.

Your pilgrim passport you receive during WYD08, entitles you to travel on public trains and buses only during the WYD08 week or the weekend, depending on your package.

For more information about Sydney, please visit www.sydney.com