THE ROCKS. Built in 1815, this cottage is the oldest residential building in Australia. Made of sandstone, it was the home of ex-convict and government coxswain John Cadman and is now an information center for the National Parks and Wildlife offices. The building's original site was along the Harbour. Short walk from Circular Quay.

CIRCULAR QUAY. Built in 1845, this structure was one of the most important buildings in the colony for many years. Currently, the French Neoclassical building houses exhibition spaces, a craft gallery, bars, the main Sydney library and restaurants. Be sure to check out the exhibit on living in Sydney, and note the aboriginal flag, which flies here permanently as a reminder of the negative effect White settlers had on the Eora People. A free movie about the Harbour is shown every 30 minutes. Located across from Circular Quay station.

ELIZABETH BAY. Once considered the finest building in New South Wales, this Greek Revival villa is best known for its domed circular staircase. Furnished in mid-19th century style, the house offers an accurate portrayal of upper class society in Colonial Australia. The second floor of the beautiful building affords a spectacular view of the city. You'll frequently find exhibitions on interior design in the space. An immaculate restoration. BUS: Route 311 from Circular Quay.

Home to the Governor of NSW until 1996 (when it became part of the historic houses trust), this building offers an excellent collection of 19th and 20th century furniture and grants magnificent views over the Harbour and Botanic Gardens. In fact, the gardens of the Government House are now officially part of the Botanic Gardens. At times, the house is still used for official occasions. TRAIN: to Circular Quay or Martin Place.

Take a stroll down memory lane, which, in Sydney, is known as Macquarie Street. Much of Sydney's finest Georgian and Victorian architecture can be found on this street, along with many of her restored public buildings. Some of the buildings you'll see include Sydney Hospital (dating from 1894), the State Library of NSW (which houses Captain Cook's original journals), Parliament House, and the Royal Mint. The street's name comes from Lachlan Macquarie, the governor responsible for much of Sydney's early development. TRAIN: to St. James or Circular Quay.