Kings Cross travel guide

Even before arriving in Sydney you will have probably heard of Kings Cross, the notorious hub of Sydney nightlife and the long-established focus of sex, drugs and rock and roll. Situated near the navy’s Woolloomooloo docks, ‘the Cross’ (as it’s often called) has been a favourite haunt of visiting sailors for years. The main drag, Darlinghurst Road, is the focus of the action, while Victoria Street is home to a rash of backpacker hostels. At the intersection of both, and the top of William Street, which connects the Cross with the city, is the huge Coca Cola sign, a popular meeting point. The best time to visit the Cross is in the early hours when the bars, the clubs and the ladies of the night are all in full swing. It is enormously popular with backpackers and Sydneysiders alike and can provide a great night out. It is also a great place to meet people, make contacts, find work and even buy a car.

Amid all the mania there are a number of notable and more sedate sights in and around Kings Cross. Elizabeth Bay House (7 Onslow Av, Elizabeth Bay), is a revival-style estate built by popular architect John Verge for Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay in 1845. The interior is restored and faithfully furnished in accordance with the times and the house has a great outlook across the harbour.

To get To Kings Cross: bus Sydney Explorer stop No 9 or regular bus services Nos 311, 323-325, 327, 333.