Sydney

The Rocks puts you in the thick of tourist Sydney, but it's tourist for a reason. You're walking distance to the Opera House and Harbor Bridge, plus weekend markets and decent pubs. Hotels here cost $300+ but you'll save on transport. Circular Quay works if you want harbor views from your window and don't mind paying luxury prices. Surry Hills gives you the best of both worlds. Twenty minutes to the Opera House by train, but you're living like a local among specialty coffee shops and wine bars. Crown Street has some of Sydney's best restaurants, and accommodation runs $150-250 per night. Bondi Beach is exactly what you think it is. Backpacker hostels, surf shops, and beach culture. Great if you want to fall asleep to ocean sounds, less great if you need to get into the city regularly. The beach is world-famous but can feel like a zoo in summer. Newtown keeps things weird and affordable. This is where Sydney's artists, students, and music lovers hang out. King Street buzzes with Thai restaurants, vintage shops, and live music venues. Hotels are scarce but Airbnbs run $100-180 per night.