Getting Oriented

Sydney is built around its huge harbor. The city center and main attractions are on the south shore. Harbour Bridge connects The Rocks on the south side with Milson's Point on the north side. Greater Sydney is vast, some 80 km (50 mi) from north to south and 70 km (43 mi) from east to west; however, the city center is relatively small. From the Opera House and Circular Quay the city stretches south for about 3 km (1.8 mi), and east to west for about 2 km (1 mi). It's relatively flat, making it easy to walk around. Beyond the harbor, the city center is essentially a business and shopping precinct, with colonial and modern buildings. The restaurant and nightlife suburbs of Kings Cross, Darlinghurst, and Surry Hill flank the city's eastern and southern edges.