Sydney is unquestionably a staple of Australia tours, and while most people are familiar with some of the city's sights, like its iconic opera house, the tourist hotspot has much more to offer. There is a long list of lesser known attractions that you should make a point to visit upon your trip to Sydney.
Australia is famous for its wildlife, some which can't be found anywhere else on earth, and you can see some of the country's most renowned creatures in Sydney's Taronga Zoo. Opened in 1916, the zoo is home to more than 2,600 animals representing more than 340 different species.
While it may not be the biggest zoo in the world, Taronga is especially appealing because of the unique animals who call it home. You can catch a glimpse of some of Australia's most famous residents, including the koala, platypus, Tasmanian devil and kangaroo; and that's just scratching the surface.
For an experience similar to the one found at Taronga Zoo you can also visit the Sydney Aquarium. Since it first opened its doors in 1988, the aquarium has been among the best places to experience the diverse marine life that lives in and around Australia.
Of course, there is more to Sydney than wildlife, the city also has considerable natural beauty, which is especially apparent in the Blue Mountains. Located just outside the city's metropolitan area, the mountains are a great place to go hiking, and the region has plenty of landmarks that stand out. The Knapsack Viaduct (also known as the Lapstone Zig Zag) and Lennox Bridge are two architectural standouts, while the Katoomba Scenic Railway is considered the steepest funicular railway in the world.
