Go to Circular Quay - the city's transport hub at the edge of the harbour - and take the ferry to Manly. Some people commute like this. The ferry at night is worth experiencing too.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

The journey from Sydney Central to Lithgow must be one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, with amazing views of the eucalyptus forest which gives the mountains their name. The trains run every hour and the full journey takes about two-and-a-half hours. Real train buffs might like to get off one stop short of Lithgow, at Clarence, and take a trip on one of the great engineering achievements of the world, the Zig-Zag railway. Check the web site for train times and 'steam days'.

Lithgow itself is typical small town Australia but has some nice cafes, particularly the 'Back Yard' on Main Street. Turn left as you come out of the station.

www.cityrail.info www.zigzagrailway.com.au

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

The James Craig is a reconstructed sailing ship which runs day trips on most saturdays during the summer season. It leaves Pyrmont Wharf, near the Australian Maritime Museum, at 9.30am and sails out through the Harbour and 'The Heads' into the Pacific Ocean. There is a genuine feeling of adventure but this is not for those prone to sea-sickness. The ship returns at about 4.00pm. Morning tea and lunch are included in the price.

www.australianheritagefleet.com.au

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Instead of walking or driving around Sydney, to get the best vantage points around the harbour hire a 'Tinny', a small aluminium boat with an engine. You don't need a boat licence, and you can fit 7 or 8 people onboard. You can also organise a fishing licence to catch some fresh Sydney seafood.

Vickery Av Rose Bay 2029 telephone: 9371 7036 or 0416 123 339

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

That's not an Australian beer, but a little metal boat with a modest outboard motor. Go to Rose Bay, where you can rent one for about $200, hire some fishing tackle, and pootle out into the harbour. Navigating a busy shipping lane and dozens of ferries is not as daunting as it seems and you can always find a quiet, hidden corner of the vast harbour. I only caught some seaweed but there are plenty of focused fishermen catching serious sea creatures out there.

Rose Bay Marina, 594 New South Head Road, Rose Bay; Tel: +61 (0)2 9363 5930

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends