Rental cars in Sydney from $48

If your trip to Sydney is all organized but your travel itinerary is a little on the empty side, let us give you a helping hand.A scan of a postcard stand will tell you that a trip to Sydney wouldn’t be complete without going to Sydney Opera House. Considered the most iconic attraction in the area, you might want to schedule more time here than a quick stop.Circular Quay is a noteworthy attraction in this fascinating city. Stop in and discover what all the hype is about.Plan a stop at Taronga Zoo. It’s one attraction you’ll usually find on many visitors’ to-do lists. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Star Casino are also nearby and worth a pit stop.

We know you want to take your new wheels for a spin. How about a day trip out to Wollongong? Just 40 miles away, roll down the windows and let the wind rustle your hair on the drive there. Wollongong City Beach, North Wollongong Beach and Stuart Park alone justify the drive. Blackheath is another popular option. It’s 55 miles away and offers an array of fascinating things to see and do. Leura Mall, Leura Cascades and Blackheath Golf Course are just the start.

No matter what the weather’s like, you’ll be able to get a glimpse of some of the beautiful beaches near Sydney from the comfort of your rental car. As you cruise along, keep your eyes open for seagulls swooping over these dazzling stretches of coastline:

• Lady Martins Beach (3 miles away).
• Milk Beach (4 miles away).
• Balmoral Beach (4 miles away).

If you’re attending a corporate conference in Sydney, you might want to follow up with your new connections over a meal. Fortunately, these convention centers offer some terrific restaurants and cafés nearby:

• International Convention Centre Sydney (1 mile away).
• Castle Hill Community Centre (15 miles away).

If you’ve never visited Sydney, you’re in for a treat. With big-name sights like Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t plan your vacation sooner. But like all major metropolises, getting behind the wheel can be challenging — so why not go for a mini? Parking is a piece of cake and handling is about as easy as it gets. However, if you’d rather steer clear of the city center and check out the more remote bays in New South Wales, choose a four-wheel drive or an SUV.

You’ll be pleased to hear that there’s an impressive variety of both economy and luxury rental vehicles in Sydney. What you go with is largely dependent on what you’re willing to spend and what you’re hoping to do. Specialty vehicles are all about mod cons and comfort. If you’re splashing out, why not pick up a high-end SUV, or perhaps a fancy mid-size sedan? On the other hand, if you’re just after a set of wheels to zip around town in as efficiently as possible, you’re better off choosing a no-frills compact vehicle (or something else that’s unlikely to break the bank).

In Sydney, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road. That means the steering wheel is on the right-hand side. If you’ve rented a manual transmission car, get comfortable with changing gears with your left hand.

You’re unlikely to have any trouble finding a parking spot in Sydney. With loads of places to leave your wheels, exploring the best of this destination is a joy.

Sydney has a population of about 4,627,300, so you’re likely to experience traffic congestion at some stage. For a smoother journey, avoid driving in the peak hours before and after work — especially around the center.

The residential zones in Sydney have a 50km/h speed limit. Outside these areas, the speed limits generally range between 40km/h and 100km/h.

Most of the time, your chosen car rental company will charge the amount stated on the fine to your credit card. Alternatively, the company may share your contact information with the relevant local agency so they can issue a fine directly to you.

Like many places, regular cell phone usage is not allowed while behind the wheel in Sydney. However, there is an exception for hands-free or Bluetooth functions. Just remember to stay focused on the road.

In Sydney, it is a criminal offence to drive with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of more than 0.05%. If you’re planning to have a drink or two, it’d be wise to leave the rental car at your hotel.

Turning on a red light is prohibited in Sydney. Always be watching for traffic lights and signs so you don’t break any traffic laws.

Subject to some exceptions, seat belts must be fastened when the vehicle is in motion in New South Wales.