There is probably no better location to sample Sydney than by basing yourself in the iconic suburb of Potts Point. Just one train station from the centre of town, or a 15-minute walk, it is a hive of activity.

From the 1920’s through to the Second World War, Potts Point was home to some of the earliest blocks of flats, and today, much of this wonderful architecture is fully intact creating the atmosphere of a European summer. Potts Point, in fact, has the highest concentration of Art Deco architecture in Australia and was the country’s first specifically designed suburb.

Heritage-listed Elizabeth House, built in 1835, is known as ‘the finest house in the colony.’ With unmatched views over Sydney harbour, this now museum is a treasure trove of history on the development of Sydney.

Nearby is Garden Island. It’s where naval ships first moored in Australia in 1856 and this picturesque spot down the hill from the centre of Potts Point is where the Royal Australian Navy Heritage Centre was built in 2005. It is now open to the public. It is now open to the public. Among many history lessons, it highlights the attack on Sydney Harbour by the Japanese during the Second World War.

At the end of your visit near Garden Island, be sure to sample an iconic pie at Harry De Wheels – a pop-up shop that’s been in the area for more than 80 years and has seen thousands of famous stars sample the food.

Back to more modern times, and the hive of activity centres around the fabulous Macleay Street. It’s a sensational mix of bars, cafes, restaurants, lounges and shopping.

It’s hard to believe that Potts Point could come alive anymore, but at night-time, it is all systems go.

Some of the fancy restaurants include Bistro Rex, Macleay Street Bistro, Franca and my personal favourite Apollo – a sensational Greek feast with indoor and outdoor dining.

Trendy Challis Avenue is home to the Sydney Italian long-lunch institution Fratelli Paradiso, which is more than 20 years old, (a place I think I have had 20 hangovers over the years) while next door, the new Bistrot 916 is one of Australia’s hottest French restaurants.

Down the hill on Macleay Street, is the celebrity juggernaut eateries of Woolloomolloo wharf with iconic locations of China Doll, Kingsley’s and Otto (bear in mind you would walk up a hill on the way back so getting an Uber would be best for women in heels and anyone after a big meal).

For chic cocktails, the much-loved Roosevelt is like a 1950’s New York Bar with martinis and whiskies, while one street behind, The Butler, has an unmatched view of Sydney Harbour, and is also home to many events and launches.

A few years back, the Potts Point Hotel was a very ordinary drinking hole, but this revamped pub is now a hive of activity with a very cool crowd and right in the centre of all the action.

With the wonderful architecture, the accommodation available in Potts Point is like no other in Central Sydney. Most of the big chains are absent, and in their place, stunning boutique hotels unmatched in the Harbour City. One of the most well-known is The Macleay. The Macleay has studio apartments with the added bonus of a small kitchen when you have a night in or breakfast each day. Many of the guest rooms boast the most amazing views of the Sydney Opera House and The Harbour Bridge.

If you happen to be in town on a weekend, there are two things you must do. The Macleay has studio apartments with the added bonus of a small kitchen when you have a ‘night in’ or DYI breakfast in your room.

On a Saturday, the Kings Cross markets, outside the iconic Alamein Fountain, is an unmatched tradition to sample fresh produce and goods from local makers and to support our local economy.

You can’t leave Potts Point without a visit (or two) to Rivareno Gelato. It’s one of the best ice cream shops in Sydney with all the treats made on site.

Let me get straight to the Point – well, the Potts Point to be precise. It’s the ultimate weekend away.

BRIDGE ROOM VIEW – THE MACLEAY HOTEL