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Circular Quay & The Rocks

Australia > New South Wales > Sydney
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About Circular Quay & The Rocks - General Information
" Circular Quay and The Rocks, located in the heart of Sydney, are iconic areas known for their rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning harbor views. Circular Quay is a bustling transport hub and gateway to the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, while The Rocks offers cobblestone streets, historic buildings, markets, and lively pubs, providing a blend of heritage and modern attractions for visitors. "
Circular Quay & The Rocks Fast Facts
- Total Accommodation Listings : 15
- Total Nightlife Listings : 47
- Total Dining Listings : 14
- Total Attraction Listings : 9
Overview
Circular Quay and The Rocks are two of Sydney’s most iconic and historically rich areas, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking harbor views. Located at the northern edge of Sydney's central business district, these adjacent neighborhoods are must-visit destinations for tourists and locals alike.
Circular Quay is a bustling transport hub, serving as the main ferry terminal for Sydney Harbour. It provides easy access to major attractions like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, take a scenic harbor cruise, or relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants with stunning views of the harbor. Street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere, making it a vibrant spot both day and night.
Adjacent to Circular Quay is The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest neighborhood, steeped in history dating back to the early colonial days. This area is characterized by its cobblestone streets, historic sandstone buildings, and charming laneways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including the Rocks Discovery Museum, which offers insights into the area's rich history. The Rocks is also home to vibrant markets held every weekend, where local artisans sell crafts, jewelry, and gourmet foods.
The Rocks boasts a lively pub scene, with historic pubs offering a glimpse into Sydney’s past along with modern bars and restaurants serving contemporary cuisine. The area also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its dynamic appeal.
With their unique blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and stunning harbor views, Circular Quay and The Rocks provide a quintessential Sydney experience. Whether you're exploring heritage sites, enjoying waterfront dining, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty, these areas offer an unforgettable journey through the heart of Sydney.

Last update June 2024

Venues in Circular Quay & The Rocks
Location Map
Circular Quay & The Rocks's Surrounding Areas
Darling Harbour
Darling Harbour, a vibrant waterfront precinct in Sydney, is renowned for its entertainment, dining, and cultural attractions. Including Pyrmont and Barangaroo, it offers diverse experiences, from world-class restaurants to family-friendly museums and parks. With scenic views, lively nightlife, and major attractions like the Australian National Maritime Museum, this bustling area is a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.
Inner West Sydney
Lying south of Port Jackson, Sydney’s Inner Western suburbs include some of the older areas of Sydney. The area is renowned for its thriving nightlife and numerous dining eat streets particularly in the suburbs of Newtown & Balmain.
Sydney North Shore
Sydney’s North Shore area is situated on the Northern side of Sydney Harbour and presents numerous spectacular viewpoints of the Sydney city skyline. Linked to the city by the Sydney Harbour Bridge it is primarily a residential area.
Sydney City Centre
Sydney CBD is the bustling heart of Australia's largest city, offering a blend of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and vibrant streets. It’s a hub for business, shopping, dining, and entertainment. From luxury boutiques to cultural institutions like the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the CBD has something for everyone, making it a dynamic and diverse part of the city's fabric.
TravelXchange Featured Destinations
Featured Acommodation
Widely regarded as Sydney’s most exclusive hotel, Park Hyatt Sydney delivers unmatched luxury with front-row views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour. Nestled between the Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay, this five-star retreat offers serene, contemporary rooms, world-class service, and refined Australian dining. From sunrise over the water to cocktails by the rooftop pool, every moment at Park Hyatt Sydney is indulgent, private, and unforgettable — the perfect choice for guests seeking elegance in Sydney’s most iconic setting.
Featured Attraction
At the heart of Sydney in The Rocks, the Overseas Passenger Terminal is your gateway to unforgettable cruises. With its stunning views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, this modern terminal combines luxury and convenience. A vibrant hub of activity, it offers a smooth transition to your ocean adventure. Explore nearby attractions, dine at exquisite restaurants, or simply soak in the incredible harbor scenery as you prepare for your voyage.
Featured Nightlife
Hacienda Bar in Sydney is a vibrant hotspot offering an eclectic mix of tantalizing cocktails and panoramic views of the iconic Harbour Bridge. This lively venue dazzles with its chic Cuban-inspired decor and electric atmosphere. Guests can unwind with refreshing drinks, groove to live music, or connect over trivia nights and themed parties. Whether you're seeking after-work relaxation or weekend revelry, Hacienda Bar crafts an unforgettable social experience that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Sydney nightlife.
Featured Dining
Rockpool on George is listed in the 2014 Top 100 Restaurants in Australia by Gourmet Traveller Australia
Listings & Awards Circular Quay & The Rocks
Everybody loves a good list. Checkout our lists of the best that the World has to offer collected from industry experts, travel professtionals and magazine publications. Our lists also include collections of award recipiants from global events to local regional presentations.
Whats Happening in Circular Quay & The Rocks
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