Sydney Pictures

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007, the Sydney Opera House's unique design, stunning Sydney Harbour views and phenomenal performances make this popular attraction a must for visitors.  Robertpaulyoung Flickr

Although this large sandstone bench is impressive, visitors flock to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for its stunning views. Here, you'll capture jaw-dropping photos of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the surrounding harbor. Darren Foreman Flickr

Those traveling to Sydney in late December cannot miss the city's annual New Year's Eve fireworks show, which illuminates the night sky above the Sydney Harbour Bridge. David Yu Getty Images

Boasting the world's largest film screen, an array of shops and restaurants, and museums like the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Powerhouse Museum, Darling Harbour offers travelers plenty to see and do. Richard Beech Photography Getty Images

Situated northeast of downtown Sydney, the Taronga Zoo provides visitors with up-close animal encounters and superb skyline views.  Larry Johnson Flickr

Many of Sydney's beaches – Bondi, Coogee and Maroubra, to name a few – feature some of the world's best surfing waves. Keith McInnes Photography Getty Images

Though visitors can no longer hold these adorable creatures in Sydney, koala photo ops are offered at several local wildlife parks and zoos. But should you crave a hug from one of these furry marsupials, head north to Queensland, where cities like Brisbane and Cairns allow visitors to hold koalas at regional zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. HighlanderImages Getty Images

For some of Sydney's best skyline views, hop aboard a ferry and cruise Sydney Harbour's waters. inigoarza Getty Images

Although Bondi steals most of the spotlight, Coogee Beach's golden sands and calmer waters are worth checking out. JavenLin Getty Images

With picturesque views and iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, odds are, you'll be spending plenty of time in Sydney Harbour during your visit. narvikk Getty Images

Sydney's ANZAC Memorial sits in downtown's Hyde Park to commemorate those lost during World War I. For a beautiful glance at this memorial, visit at night when the glowing structure reflects in its adjacent pond. Alister Laidlaw/EyeEM Getty Images

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Sydney in the city's Royal Botanic Garden. This lush sanctuary features 8,900 plant species, as well as 36 sculptures and all sorts of local wildlife. Thomas Kurmeier Getty Images

Surfers and beach bums cannot miss a visit to this world-famous Australian beach. For those who'd rather skip the water and sand, try doing one of Bondi Beach's coastal walks, which will take you to Bronte or Coogee. Christine Wehrmeier Getty Images

Known locally as the "Coathanger," the Sydney Harbour Bridge – which is the world's largest steel arch bridge – stands an impressive 440 feet above Sydney Harbour. AtomicZen Getty Images

While many locals come here to enjoy some of Sydney's best shopping, make sure to admire the Queen Victoria Building (QVB)'s architecture during your visit. Original stonework, plaster details and stained glass are showcased throughout the building's interior and exterior. ArtofShades Getty Images

Despite being a bit farther from downtown Sydney than other beaches like Bondi and Coogee, avid surfers praise Manly Beach for its prime surfing waves and fun atmosphere. Nigel Howe Flickr

Visitors traveling to Sydney in the spring cannot miss a chance to experience Sculpture by the Sea. This seaside event places local artists' quirky and powerful sculptures along the Sydney coast every October and November. Nicki Mannix Flickr

From trendy bars and eateries to top-notch boutiques and art galleries, The Rocks neighborhood offers something for everyone. kokkai Getty Images

For travelers arriving in May and June, be sure to check out Vivid Sydney. Every year during these months, Vivid Sydney lights up the city's government buildings and tourist attractions, providing visitors with an extraordinary look at sites like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. kokkai Getty Images

No harbor city would be complete without a museum dedicated to the sea. At the Australian National Maritime Museum, expect to see all sorts of exhibits, including several docked ships, which visitors can climb aboard. UCFFool Flickr

Seven permanent collections and more than 30 annual rotating exhibits can be found at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, which sits near the Royal Botanic Gardens and Mrs. Macquarie's Chair. sourabhj Getty Images

Although the Hyde Park Barracks Museum may not be as well known as another local UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sydney Opera House, this convict museum offers insight into Sydney's colonial history. NCHANT Getty Images