You’ll know confident, cosmopolitan Sydney for its icons; the great curves of its Harbour Bridge and Opera House adorn glossy travel mags the world over. However, in between its poster children, there’s much to discover. There’s a world-class restaurant scene, plenty of outdoors fun and a year-round calendar of festivals to keep Sydney’s cultural beat thumping strong.

Discover the rich history behind Australia’s first settlement at the historic Rocks district. Among its small cobblestone lanes and courtyards you'll find heritage cottages, harbour-view hotels and even convict-era pubs. Enjoying something of a renaissance, its legacy architecture is now host to a growing collection of award-winning galleries and hip bars.

However, it’s perhaps Bondi that’s Sydney’s most emblematic suburb. Learn to surf at its famous beach and soak up the boho chic before exploring a delightful collection of coastal paths. However, you don’t have to head out of the city centre for a walk. More than 16 routes hug the harbour foreshore, with some of the best around Mosman Bay, Vaucluse and Cremorne Point.

Or, take a ferry from central Circular Quay to Manly. It’s the chance to experience a slice of coastal life in the city, complete with scuba spots, beaches and a superb selection of waterfront cafés and restaurants. It even offers the opportunity to wander through native bushland and make like a local with a secluded picnic.

Back towards the centre, inner-city Paddington is a hive of happening, host to boutique markets, a chic café culture and lively pubs. It’s all set to a backdrop of wide, leafy streets and Victorian terraces. Not to be outdone, next-door Woollahra features a delightful collection of upmarket antique shops and art galleries.