Martin Place

Martin Place is the ceremonial and civic heart of the Sydney CBD — a grand pedestrian plaza running through the centre of the city, lined with some of its most significant heritage buildings, including the historic General Post Office and the Reserve Bank. It's a focal point of city life and a landmark in its own right.

The appeal is that sense of occasion and history: a stately, car-free boulevard that hosts everything from the Anzac Day commemorations at the Cenotaph to markets, public events and Christmas celebrations, all amid grand architecture. It's a natural place to pause, people-watch and take in the heart of corporate and civic Sydney.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 2,000 reviews, it's a recognised city landmark. The plaza is free and open, but events, markets and seasonal activations come and go and can change the atmosphere considerably, so it's worth checking what's on before a special visit — though for a wander through the heart of the city, you can simply stroll through any time and take in the architecture and the bustle.