SYDNEY

Australia's largest city is truly having a moment. Its Opera House has undergone a decade-long refurbishment and it is now joined by a new architectural icon: Sydney Modern.

It has always been a city that takes its culture, hospitality and partying seriously, and the lifting of its pernicious licensing laws in 2020 has gradually led to an invigorated boost to its late-night offerings. Discover the city's highlights, as selected by Elias Redstone, artistic director of Melbourne's Photo 2024 and Wallpaper's Australia editor.

01. THE NATIONAL 4

Launched in 2017 by Art Gallery of New South Wales, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and Carriageworks, The National is a biennial celebration of contemporary Australian art. The 2023 edition, which opens later this month, welcomes Campbelltown Arts Centre to the party and features new work by 53 artists and collectives including Abdul Abdullah, Hoda Afshar, Reko Rennie, Brenda L Croft, and Jilamara Arts & Crafts Association, the-national.com.au

02. PELLEGRINO 2000

From the team behind the much-lauded Bistrot 916 in Potts Point, Pellegrino 2000, which opened last year in Surry Hills, has fast become the go-to neighbourhood trattoria. To complement the modern Italian food, the joyful brand identity was conceived by Sydney's SCCO Studio as a homage to the imagery of traditional Italian restaurants. Downstairs, a wine cellar doubles as an intimate candlelit dining room. pellegrino2000.com

03. OPERA HOUSE