Situated across the harbour from the Opera House is North Sydney, Sydney's second high-rise business district, however do not be deterred, it has many superb restaurants, pubs, clubs and bars. Just east of here are the upmarket suburbs of Neutral Bay, Cremorne and Mosman, all with beautiful coves, harbour side parks and superb dining. Ferries go to all these suburbs from Circular Quay.

Mosman is one of Sydney's most fashionable suburbs, the eastern end of Military road has retained its village atmosphere and has an excellent range of shops and restaurants. If you follow Military road north you will eventually reach Manly and the Northern Suburbs.

The constantly evolving Taronga Park Zoo overlooking the harbour from Mosman has a wide variety of animals, many native to Australia. Ferries leave Warf 2 at Circular Quay and stop at the Zoos' harbour entrance. However the Zoo is set on a steep hill, so if you don't want to be continually walking up hill, it is recommended you catch a bus from Circular Quay to the front entrance, and take a ferry home. During the summer months night visits are organised so you can view the nocturnal animals.

Directly opposite the Opera House at the end of Kirribilli Point, stands Admirality House (closest to the bridge) and Kirribilli House, the Sydney residences of the Governor-General and the Prime Minister respectively, these grand houses are only opened to the public on special occasions.

Crows Nest located slightly further inland is now one of Sydney's leading restaurant precincts, with many cafes and restaurants offering alfresco dining. If you are game enough to try some bush tucker you should stop at the Five Star Gourmet Deli as it sells an excellent range.