Sydney Nightlife

Sydney’s diverse nightlife options include something for everyone – from the high arts of opera, classical music, and cutting edge drama, to a night on the town at a nightclub or pub.

The Sydney Opera House presents excellent opera, ballet, and classical music performances – the world-renown Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian Ballet, and Australian Opera all regularly perform here.
Sydney has a vibrant gay and lesbian scene, especially in the area around Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, and many hotels, bars and clubs cater for both. Popular events include the annual Gay Mardi Gras, four weeks of festivities held in every March featuring cultural and sporting events, a street parade and art exhibitions.

Selected bars and nightclubs

Star City Casino

Sydney's only casino, a five star hotel, 14 restaurants and bars, conference facilities and theatres. Located on the water's edge at Darling Harbour and commanding views of the harbour and city skyline.
80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont.
Open daily 24 hours 9777 9000

A girl’s night out

One of Sydney’s favourite pubs, The Mercantile Hotel (>50) at The Rocks has live music most nights.

Cargo Bar and Lounge

Enjoy a sunset beer or cocktail in the spacious outdoor beer garden or the split level, waterside bar. On Fridays you can dance from dusk til dawn.

52–60 The Promenade, King Street Wharf
9262 1777
Daily 11.30am til late
Bus: 412, 413
Ferry: Aquarium Pier
Monorail: Darling Park

Royal Hotel

This charming hotel, set in an old part of Paddington, is known for its upstairs Elephant Bar, which has a great cocktail menu and comfy couches. The restaurant serves bistro meals; get there early to enjoy the balcony dining in summer.

357 Glenmore Road, Five Ways, Paddington
9331 2604
Mon-Sat 10am-12pm
Sun 10am-10pm
Bus: 389

Kings Cross and Potts Point

Once Sydney’s most Bohemian district, Kings Cross is now somewhat seedy, but it’s the place for late nightlife. Adjacent Potts Point (Macleay and Victoria streets in particular) has interesting old domestic architecture and cafes.

Hard Rock Cafe

Serves American fare such as delicious hamburgers and fries. The rock 'n' roll memorabilia is a bonus. $ L & D daily; 121-9 Crown Street, East Sydney 9331 1116