Sydney
,
Australia
The East Coast gem boasts sun-drenched beaches, an exceptional dining landscape, and plenty of stylish boutiques.
The tempo of life here is unhurried: embrace the relaxed Aussie way of living like the natives, waking up early to discover nearby secret bays and seaside hikes, then gliding into town for an afternoon brunch.
Read more:
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Here, there’s something for every preference, be it seeking out the ideal flat white or surfing on hidden beaches: check them out below.
Where to shop
The most upscale boutiques in Sydney are typically found in two separate neighborhoods: Paddington and Bondi. If you’re looking for flowing linen garments and sleek dresses suitable for transitioning from daytime to evening wear, visit an Australian-owned boutique located in these areas.
SIR
, featuring trendy boutiques in each location. Alternatively, you can stop by
St Agni
, a label originating from Byron Bay—the laid-back coastal haven further north along the eastern seaboard—known for its structured, neutrally-hued tailoring.
Whether they’re international or local brands,
Incu
The Galeries stands out as a preferred destination for its carefully selected range of menswear and womenswear. Here, you’ll discover a blend of up-and-coming and well-known fashion labels. Additionally, those who enjoy scavenging for treasures will have the opportunity to sift through an array of vintage finds and pre-owned high-end items.
SWOP
.
Where to dine and have beverages
Over in Paddington,
Saint Peter
Dominates the culinary landscape. This sophisticated high-end eatery helmed by Chef Josh Niland offers an extravagant homage to seafood. The tasting menu, which varies every day, highlights regional fisheries, farms, and fresh produce—each ingredient is impressively displayed at the table prior to serving each dish.
Nose-to-tail cuisine manifests in innovative and surprising forms here: relish tender noodles crafted from trout bones, and sample cured meats prepared using lesser-known parts of fish. Other plates may be simpler (imagine freshly baked sourdough torn into pieces, soaked in olive brine, then served alongside smooth slivers of mackerel). However, the star attraction for the main dish is an artistic arrangement reminiscent of a Jackson Pollock painting—vibrant vegetables artfully arranged—and complemented by a perfectly seared tuna steak. The dessert menu also incorporates seafood elements such as bone marrow-infused fudge and caneles topped with caviar.
For a lighter menu option, secure a seat at
Ester
, a renowned Chippendale restaurant known for its seasonal offerings (think fermented potato bread crowned with salmon roe and blood sausage sandwiches as signature items) set within an industrial ambiance.
At the same time, a stylish Greek eatery has made its debut.
Olympus Dining
, where you can indulge in platters of crudo and incredibly flaky spanakopita pies — followed by live jazz and cocktails at a beloved local spot.
Hubert
.
Where to stay
For a downtown slumber party that keeps you near all the excitement, book your stay at
Capella Sydney
, it stands as one of the most luxurious places to stay in the city. Situated at the center of Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), you’ll find yourself within easy walking distance of Circular Quay, as well as many prominent attractions such as the famous Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden.
The bedrooms here are quite generous; even basic rooms are double the size of suites at many other places. They’re also packed with trendy details like soaring ceilings, oversized emperor-sized beds, and soft-to-the-touch furniture. These elements contrast beautifully against sleek walnut accents and smooth cream-colored materials. Every room comes equipped with advanced technology such as Bose speakers, Dyson hair dryers, and large 55-inch televisions positioned across from each bed. Additionally, an iPad placed beside every pillow allows guests to easily adjust both lighting and temperature settings with just a simple tap.
With the enormous bathtub and free minibar, you’ll have ample reason to remain indoors.
For breakfast, you can indulge in an array of fresh fruits and buttery pastries at the hotel’s brasserie. The chefs will happily prepare Asian and Australian-style dishes upon request (such as made-to-order omelets and savory chicken congee) for your dining pleasure.
Throughout the day, visitors staying at the hotel mingle with local people at Aperture, which serves as both an all-day dining area and bar within the hotel premises. Alternatively, they might retreat to the Living Room—a quiet space exclusive for residents—where one can freely access snacks and beverages around the clock. This secluded spot is known as a distinctive hallmark of The Capitol Hotel.
Following your morning excursions around the city, head up to the sixth floor to unwind at the hotel’s exceptional spa, which was once an art gallery. This bright area floods with sunlight and features a striking 20-meter-long indoor swimming pool as its focal point, surrounded by plush loungers perfect for relaxing on.
Following an intense workout session at the 24-hour fitness center, take a tour through the revitalizing plunge pool, sauna, and steam chamber. Additionally, within several light-filled therapy spaces, indulge in luxurious treatments crafted alongside the renowned Australian studio Fluidform Pilates: expect comprehensive body sessions perfect for firming, elongating, and relieving weary muscles.
The service is consistently smooth throughout. Team members swiftly pick up guests’ names and preferences, with onsite Capella Culturists ready to offer insider advice and secure table bookings as needed.
The rooms begin at $480 per night.
Book Capella Sydney here
What to do
Visiting popular spots for beach hopping and surfing is a must, but consider exploring lesser-known sections of the coast as well. Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, a seaside suburb of the city known not only for its surfable shores but also for its vibrant café culture.
Embrace the vibrant outdoor culture of Australia with a hike from Bondi to Coogee and back, then unwind at one of the city’s famous ocean-fed swimming spots. Consider visiting Wylie’s Baths, an inviting rocky pool nestled near Coogee Beach, offering a more serene option compared to the bustling Bondi Icebergs.
Farther away, the dramatically picturesque Blue Mountains National Park offers an easily manageable day trip—just a two-hour train journey from here.
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