See This, Skip That: Sydney

— -- Sydney’s allure is indisputable -– a beautiful, exotic, multicultural destination on the other side of the world where travelers come to explore and escape.

As Australia’s most populous city and the capital of New South Wales, this is a bustling metropolis indeed, where rich culture, creative cuisine and endless activities create a treasure trove of experiences. And Mother Nature -– from the water’s edge to the tops of mountains -– reigns supreme here, too. Never been Down Under? Consider going during Vivid Sydney, a new 18-day festival that brings iconic landmarks to life with music and multi-colored lights, schedule this year from May 22 to June 8.

Here are a few of the other special ways to experience Sydney:

Skip the Cab, BikeThe bicycle is an excellent way to take in the sights and sounds of Sydney’s CBD, or Central Business District. Sydney Bike Tours helps you figure out where to go with several self-guided tours that are also themed, like “Bike the Bridge,” Opera House & Hyde Park” and “Fish Market & Harbour Explorer.” Their two-wheelers come in various sizes and feature 27 gears, disc brakes and road tires. Rentals, available seven days a week, come with helmet and lock, and, to help you travel lighter, include a full-day locker rental. Kids’ bikes are discounted.

Skip the Bike, WalkActually, walking may be an even better way to take in many of Sydney’s iconic landmarks. In fact, inside the CBD, and along its perimeter, you’ll find a ton of must-see sights, like Harbour Bridge and the Opera House; consider breaking up your touring stroll over two or three days. For a historical throwback, spend a few hours walking Sydney’s Rocks district. And for a respite from the city bustle, walk the water’s edge. My colleague Alex Keshen, a producer in Travelzoo Australia’s Sydney office, says, “There are tons of kilometers-long walking trails along the harbour that make you feel like you're a million miles away from the city.” She suggests the walks from Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach and from Spit Bridge to Manly Beach. "They're super-easy to get to by public transport and you won't spend half your day getting to them,” she adds. “Plus, many have swimming spots along the way.” Also consider the saunter from famous Bondi Beach to the suburb of Bronte, which features spectacular scenery.

Skip the CBD, Head to the ‘BurbsFor some real Sydney flavor, visit its suburbs. Keshen, a Toronto native who moved to Sydney three years ago, has a few favorites. “Newtown has an alternative vibe, some cool street art hidden in alleyways between terrace houses and is known for its cheap and affordable restaurants,” she told me. "Chic Darlinghurst/Paddington has higher-end shops, and the Centennial Parklands are nearby. And trendy Surry Hills has wonderful bars and cafes."

For a View, Climb the BridgeMy colleague Christie McConnell, who handles marketing out of Travelzoo headquarters in New York City, honeymooned in Sydney. Her top travel tip? “Definitely do the Harbour Bridge Climb, even if you’re afraid of heights,” she insists. “It’s amazing.” The iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, built in 1932, is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks, but imagine a pic from the very top of it! A pre-climb prep outfits you with outdoor gear before a guide leads you to the summit, some 450 feet above sea level, and onto the Pylon Lookout for some sweeping, dramatic, awe-striking views of Sydney. For safety reasons, you can’t bring items up with you -– including cameras -– but your ticket includes a group photo up top, and you can have personal pictures taken for an extra fee.

Don’t Just Tour the Harbour, Go TallThere are myriad ways to cruise beautiful Sydney Harbour, but the city’s only two timber tall ships –- 1850s-style vessels that have been meticulously restored -- offer something unique. The experience from Sydney Harbour Tall Ships is hands-on – you get to hoist the sails and steer the ship – and includes a chance (for an extra fee) to climb the mast. From 50 feet up, the visuals of the city are one-of-a-kind. Sailings last two hours and include lunch.

Skip the Cruise, Set SailSpeaking of hands-on: why not maximize your visit to legendary Sydney Harbour and learn to set sail yourself? The group Flying Fish runs race-tuned yachts that are ideal for teaching beginners the basics: how to use clutches, winches and halyards, how to hoist and trims sails, how to tack and gybe and more. Three-hour beginner sails take place in the morning and include après-sail refreshments. More experienced seafarers can sign up for more advanced yachting and racing packages that last one or two days.

Skip Bondi, Head NorthBeautiful Sydney beaches like Bondi and Coogee draw crowds for good reason. But for a less congested waterside experience, check out the expansive and relaxed Northern Beaches. More than 10 miles of coastline – from Manly to Palm Beach and braced by Pacific Ocean and the tidal area of Pittwater –- are home to sweeping stretches of sand, great surfing, beautiful parklands and a whole bunch of dining options. For swimmers, some of the beaches here, like Collaroy and Newport, are home to excellent ocean pools. The natural wonder continues west of Pittwater, at Ku-rin-gai Chase National Park, where a rainforest environment features hidden waterfalls and Aboriginal rock engravings.

Skip the Water, Head to the MountainsThe Blue Mountains are stunning and, located just two hours from Sydney and accessible by car, bus or train, can make for an excellent day trip. (Of course, with about 2 1/2 million acres to explore, you could spend several days out here.) Taking in the spectacular natural beauty aside, you can go bushwalking or hiking, traverse forests and enjoy arts-driven events offered throughout the year. The famed Three Sisters rock formation is here, as well as the awesome underground Jenolan cave system. Hop on the glass-bottomed Scenic Skyway – it hangs 900 feet above the ground and travels more than 2000 feet across – for eye-popping views of Jamison Valley and Katoomba Falls. Contact Eagle Rock Adventures for introductory lessons to the adrenaline-pumping adventure that is canyoning.

Skip the Bar, Head to the VinesThe burgeoning wine bar scene is taking Sydney by storm these days. But Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine growing region, brings Australia’s viticultural traditions to life. It’s also about a two-hour drive from Sydney; so yes, another great day trip or certainly a viable culinary escape for a few days. You’ll find more than 150 wineries here -- some require advance reservations for tastings -- as well as several foodie-friendly festivals year-round. Historic towns like Pokolbin and Lovedale are home to outstanding restaurants and cottages. And in case you’re wondering: shiraz to them is the same as syrah to you and me.

After the Zoo, Go WildSydney's Taronga Zoo is a must for any animal lover, with more than 4000 animals, keeper talks and shows every day and gorgeous views; located a 12-minute ferry ride from CBD by ferry, it also features a new Wild Ropes adventure course and even overnight safari-style camping. But be sure to check out Wild Life Sydney, an interactive attraction where habitat zones house animals that are native to Australia, like saltwater crocodiles, wombats, budgerigars, kangaroos and devils. There are behind-the-scenes tours and feeding opportunities. And for a wild meal, ask about their Koala Breakfast Experience. The Sydney Sea Life Aquarium is another family-friendly must.

Gabe Saglie is Senior Editor for Travelzoo, which features travel tips and exclusive deals to Australia here: http://www.travelzoo.com/destinations/australia/.