Parramatta

Discover UNESCO World Heritage, enjoy the Riverside Theatres and taste authentic flavours from around the world in Parramatta, the historic heart of Western Sydney. The cultural heritage, delicious experiences and fun festivals are all an easy walk from the train station or ferry wharf.

A delightful way to travel to Parramatta is by ferry from Circular Quay, gliding under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and along pretty Parramatta River past Sydney Olympic Park to Parramatta Wharf. The scenic trip is about 85 minutes. By train from Central Station the journey is about 25 minutes.

Home to a rich diversity of cultures, Parramatta is a treat for your senses with a fine selection of restaurants and ‘eat streets’ such as Church Street and Wigram Road. The vibrant arts and cultural scene includes world-class performances at Riverside and Parramasala, a colourful annual festival.

Pop into Parramatta Heritage and Visitor Information Centre and pick up maps and tips on all the wonderful things to do and see. Convict-built Old Government House – the country residence of the first 10 governors - and beautiful Parramatta Park are World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites.

Enjoy high tea at elegant Gatehouse Tea Rooms in the park. You can walk or cycle to where former convict James Ruse successfully grew the first wheat crop in 1791 and tour on site the 1835-built Experiment Farm Cottage. Wool pioneers John and Elizabeth Macarthur owned Elizabeth Farm.

A stroll from Elizabeth Farm is Rosehill Gardens, home of the richest horserace in the world for two-year-old thoroughbreds – the Golden Slipper. Check out the exciting events calendar for more race days as well as shows, exhibitions and festivals, such as Parramatta Lanes food and cultural festival.

Lovely riverbank picnic spots are dotted along Parramatta River, which winds past Old Government House in Parramatta Park. Bring your bicycle and enjoy riverside cycle ways to historical sites. You’ll find a range of accommodation to suit various budgets for a perfect short break or weekend escape.