Australia’s largest and most popular city also boasts a thriving restaurant scene, colourful festivals, world-class sporting events and countless art galleries.
Sydney
Enjoy Sydney’s natural beauty as you cruise along sparkling Sydney Harbour and take in the sights of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Australia’s largest and most popular city also boasts a thriving restaurant scene, colourful festivals, world-class sporting events and countless art galleries. Do the Harbour Bridge Climb, or Walk or cycle along the scenic shoreline and take a dip at one of Sydney’s many beaches. To live out the Australian lifestyle, head to Bondi Beach for a surf lesson or simply relax on the golden sand and take it all in.
Sydney Harbour
Top Things To Do
Harbour Bridge Climb Sydney
Blue Mountains
Less than two hours away from Sydney by car or by train, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains await you. So called because of the blue haze that emits from the vast eucalypt forests that carpet the valley floors, the Blue Mountains offer adventure in abundance. Take a self-guided hike along one of many walking trails or join a bushwalking tour to learn more about the area’s natural landscape. Explore at a slower pace at Scenic World in Katoomba, which offers spectacular views across the Jamison Valley via the Scenic Skyway. Or simply stroll the local shops and soak up the café culture in Leura – we recommend Leura Garage.
Blue Mountains
The Hunter Valley
The Hunter Valley
Only two hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, pairs up artisan chocolates and cheeses with its acclaimed Semillon and Shiraz. With more cellar doors than any other wine region in Australia, there are plenty of options for wine tasting in scenic surroundings. The region also offers many touring options, so you can easily get from winery to winery, plus visit golf courses, awarded restaurants and delightful hotels and spas. For bird’s-eye views, float above the vineyards on a hot air balloon ride and watch kangaroos hop along the vineyards.
Port Stephens
Port Stephens offers the perfect coastal getaway from Sydney. Be prepared to be stunned when you arrive in this region after only driving 2.5 hours from the city – beautiful beaches, coastal walks, national parks and pristine waters await. Just after a few hours spent in this laid-back area you will see why Sydneysiders come here to relax and rejuvenate. For an adrenaline and culture filled day, explore the Stockton Sand Dunes on an Aboriginal-led quad bike tour or take to the waters to spot one of the more than 200 dolphins that reside in Port Stephens. If you’re visiting from May – November jump onboard a whale watch cruise and keep an eye out for humpback whales that migrate along the New South Wales coastline each year.
Port Stephens
Royal National Park & South Coast
Royal National Park & The South Coast
Head south from Sydney and in just an hour’s drive you will find yourself in the Royal National Park, Australia’s oldest national park. Here there are abundant opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural landscape, from bushwalking to birdwatching, surfing, fishing and whale watching. You can take in this national park by driving the Grand Pacific Drive, which winds its way down the New South Wales south coast. Drive along the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge and stop off at many beautiful coastal towns. Continue all the way to Jervis Bay and you’ll find some of Australia’s most pristine beaches with dazzling white sand.
When to visit
With clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures Sydney is a great holiday destination year round, but the best time to take advantage of the natural landscape and coastline is October – May.
Getting here
Sydney is reachable with many international carriers flying daily.
How to get around
For road trip visitors, Sydeny is a depot for all major rental cars and motor homes. A regular and reliable metropolitan train and bus system runs through Sydney, aswell as Ferrys across the harbour.
