The Greater Sydney area has numerous attractions that can be easily reached by public transport. These include historic townships, the Sydney 2000 Olympics site, national parks where you can explore and enjoy the Australian bush, and wildlife and theme parks that appeal to children.
Other points of interest are the north-side beaches, particularly Manly, and the historic city of Parramatta, founded in 1788 and 26 km (16 miles) to the west; and the magnificent Hawkesbury River, which winds its way around the city's western and northern borders. The waterside suburb of Balmain has pubs and restaurants, an atmospheric Saturday flea market, and backstreets full of character.
