Sydney Travelers Recommend

Australia’s national day—Jan. 26—is one of the country’s most popular public holidays and a nationwide celebration of all things Australian. Barbecues, parades, fireworks, and music concerts add to the festive mood. It’s also a memorable time to visit iconic Australia attractions. Here are some ideas for celebrating Australia Day. 

• Attend the official Australia day celebrations in Canberra, including an Australian flag raising ceremony, citizenship ceremonies, and a huge fireworks display.

• Watch the Australia Day Parade in Melbourne, and then dine aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. 

• Join the crowds for the gigantic Australia Day Party in Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Afterwards, cool off with a swim at Bondi Beach.

• Tuck into Aussie treats like pavlova, chocolate tim tams, and meat pies at the Great Australian Bites festival on Brisbane’s Southbank.

• Admire the Australia Day Skyworks in Perth from the water on a Swan River cruise.

• Make like a local and enjoy an Aussie barbecue or “sausage sizzle,” attend a beach or pool party, or watch a cricket match.

• Celebrate Australia Day by checking off some of Australia’s bucket list wonders—climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, snorkeling or scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, or driving along the famous Great Ocean Road.

Brightening up Sydney’s winter nights, Vivid Sydney is Australia's largest festival of light, music, and ideas. The event transforms the city’s famous buildings with dazzling light sculptures and innovative light installations. Read on for how to best  celebrate the annual Sydney festival.

When to Go

Vivid is typically held over three weeks from the end of May to early June, coinciding with the start of the Australian winter months. During the festival, special events, exhibitions, and light displays are held daily all around the city.

Where to Go

The festival’s most spectacular displays are held around Sydney Harbour, Circular Quay, and Darling Harbour, where waterfront landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, and Customs House serve as the backdrop to the show-stopping light show. Notable light and sound exhibitions also take place in the Royal Botanic Garden, Taronga Zoo, The Rocks, Kings Cross, Walsh Bay, and Campbells Cove.

How to Go

The best way to experience Vivid Sydney is from the harbor, so book an evening Sydney Harbour cruise to admire the city’s glittering sights and skyline reflecting in the water. Alternatively brave a Sydney BridgeClimb for bird’s-eye views, or simply enjoy a dinner date at a harborside restaurant. To ensure you don’t miss anything, book a Walk the Light walking tour of Sydney’s central business district and soak up the atmosphere with the help of a local guide.

With three days in Sydney, you have plenty of time to soak up the city’s atmosphere, see its most famous sights, loll on the beach, and head out of town into the surrounding countryside. Here are a few ways to experience the very best of Sydney in 72 memorable hours.

Day 1: Explore Sydney Harbour Sydney Harbour, with its iconic UNESCO World Heritage–listed opera house and dramatic Sydney Harbour Bridge, makes up the city’s most recognizable image. One of the best ways to take in the sights is aboard a catamaran or tall-ship tour around the harbor. Tour boats typically cruise close to the Sydney Opera House and bridge, allowing for excellent photo opportunities. Some tours include lunch or dinner, and others offer additional experiences such as entry to the Taronga Zoo. Alternatively, consider a scenic helicopter tour for a wide-angle view of the harbor and Sydney skyline.

After seeing the harbor highlights from a distance, you can get up close on a guided climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a backstage Sydney Opera House tour, or by attending an opera or ballet inside the world-famous performing arts venue.

Day 2: Spend a Day at the Beach No visit to Sydney is complete without spending some time soaking up the sun on at least one of its legendary beaches. Famed Bondi Beach is just five miles (eight kilometers) from the city center, so both Sydney and Bondi sightseeing tours offer the chance to take a stroll along the beach and dip your feet in the warm water. Alternatively, Sydney and Bondi hop-on hop-off bus and boat tours allow you to set your own itinerary and take your time at the beach before continuing on to other stops along the sightseeing route. 

More sand-and-sea options lie just a short distance from the city, including bustling Manly. Some Sydney tours include visits to Manly and the Northern Beaches, and usually allow for free time to enjoy the beach area.

Day 3: Experience the Blue Mountains Sydneysiders looking to escape into nature flock to the serene Blue Mountains, easily and quickly accessible from the city center. Guided full-day Blue Mountains tours (private or group) typically take in the region’s most famous sights, such as the distinctive rock formation of the Three Sisters, and many include stops at additional attractions, such as a wildlife park where you can see kangaroos, koalas, and other native critters.

Alternatively, spend a day exploring Australia’s oldest wine-producing region. Guided Hunter Valley wine tours with hotel pickup and drop-off take the worry out of driving after indulging in some wine tasting, and often include lunch with wine pairings.

Sydney, one of Australia’s most visually spectacular cities (though perhaps surprisingly, not its capital) is blessed by a dazzling harbor, icons such as the Sydney Opera House, and a close proximity to beautiful beaches. With only one day you’ll want to see as much as possible, so here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in Sydney.

Morning: See the Sights

Traveling by bus is one of the best ways to see a lot of Sydney in a short time. Start your day with a guided bus tour, which typically visits the historic Rocks neighborhood and Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for all-encompassing views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Some tours offer optional upgrades to include an opera house tour, lunch cruise, or seaplane harbor tour. To see top landmarks in less time with more ambience, choose a Sydney sightseeing cruise.

Afternoon: Visit Bondi Beach

No visit to Sydney is complete without soaking up some sun on Bondi Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. It’s just five miles (eight kilometers) from the city center and boasts warm waters and consistently nice waves. Many Sydney sightseeing tours include time at Bondi for the chance to take a stroll along the beach or pop into a local café. Alternatively, Sydney and Bondi hop-on hop-off bus tours and bus-and-boat combo tours allow you to set your own schedule and spend as long as you like at the beach before continuing on to other stops along the sightseeing route.

Night: Cruise the Harbor at Sunset

Sydney Harbour’s landmarks are perhaps at their most captivating when the setting sun casts them in a warm glow. Early evening harbor cruises typically pass close by the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and other top sights while including dinner and drinks. Another opportunity for a meal with a view can be found at the revolving restaurant atop Sydney Tower, where you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama and watch the city lights sparkle from the comfort of an elegant restaurant.

While Sydney is often blessed with sunny weather, there’s always the chance of a downpour in the Harbour City. Here's how to stay dry and make the most of rainy days on your Sydney vacation.

• Go behind-the-scenes at one of the world’s most famous buildings on a tour of the Sydney Opera House.
• Go one better and watch an opera or concert at the iconic venue.
• Dodge showers on the covered bottom deck of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour.
• Create a self-guided tour of Sydney’s top indoor attractions with a Sydney Attractions Pass.
• Shelter from the rain in some of Sydney’s best eateries on a food tour.
• Snag some bargains during a shopping trip to Sydney’s best brand outlet.
• Stay warm on a pub tour of the historic The Rocks district.
• Meet native Australian animals at Wild Life Sydney.
• Dive into the wonderful world of marine life without getting wet at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.
• Visit Madame Tussaud s to pose beside wax replicas of Australian celebrities such as Nicole Kidman and Elle Macpherson.

Two days in Sydney allow you time to thoroughly explore its spectacular harbor—with its iconic opera house and bridge—and the rest of the city center, as well as venture to its world-famous beaches. Here’s how to spend two days in Australia’s most glamorous city.

Day 1: Explore Sydney Harbour

**Morning:**Check off Sydney’s major sights with a private or group city sightseeing tour. Journey through the streets in a bus or cruise the harbor in a boat to see such landmarks as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you prefer some flexibility, hop-on hop-off bus and boat tours allow you to create your own itinerary.

**Afternoon:**Having gotten the classic views of the bridge and opera house, get a closer look. Guided Sydney Opera House tours offer exclusive access to normally off-limits areas of the building and provide enlightening information about its remarkable architecture. Alternatively, a guided climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge offers a bird’s-eye view of the harbor below. 

**Night:**Better than just visiting the Sydney Opera House is seeing an opera or ballet in the legendary venue. A variety of seating options are available to suit your budget, and special packages often include dinner and a backstage tour.

Day 2: Hit the Beach

**Morning:**Get a taste of Australian beach culture by heading for Manly and the Northern Beaches in Sydney’s coastal suburbs. Some longer Sydney sightseeing tours include visits on their itineraries and give you free time to soak up the sun and explore Manly Beach.

**Afternoon:**Only five miles (eight kilometers) from the city center is Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most renowned beaches. It’s a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, and a visit is often also included on sightseeing bus and boat tours.

**Night:**Conclude your Sydney visit with a sunset harbor cruise. Early evening departures typically cruise by the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and other top sights, with many including dinner and drinks. Sydney Tower offers another dinner option with its revolving restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with 360-degree views of the city.

With its iconic landmarks, urban beaches, and diverse neighborhoods, Sydney has plenty to tempt travelers with, but there are some sights that can’t be missed. 

See the city’s most recognizable landmarks up-close on a Sydney Harbour cruise; tick off more of the sights on a hop-on hop-off bus tour; or challenge yourself to the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. For an unforgettable evening, watch a performance at the Sydney Opera House or have dinner at the top of the Sydney Tower. Be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Don’t forget to explore outside of the city too—the UNESCO-listed landscapes of the Blue Mountains are a popular choice of day trip, while wine lovers won’t want to miss a wine tasting tour of the Hunter Valley. See below for some must-do activities in Sydney. 

Transforming the city into a riot of outrageous costumes and foot-stomping beats, Mardi Gras in Sydney is no ordinary carnival—it's one of the world’s largest and most important LGBTQ pride festivals. Here’s what to know if you plan to attend.

Mardi Gras History

Australia’s first ever Mardi Gras parade took place in 1978, on the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York, a reaction to discrimination against the city’s LGBTQ community. The incident is heralded as a major milestone for the gay community, resulting in key changes in both laws and public opinion. Today, many of the events at Sydney’s Mardi Gras have a political undercurrent, with workshops, talks, and demonstrations focusing on equal rights and LGBTQ issues, and the festival is renowned as a vibrant and far-reaching celebration of diversity, individuality, and acceptance.

Ways to Celebrate Sydney Mardi Gras

• Get glammed up for the grand Mardi Gras parade, the festival’s headline event, which takes place along Oxford Street, Flinders Street, and Taylor Square on the first Saturday of March.

• Make the most of Sydney’s Mardi Gras celebrations, including popular events such as the Bondi Beach Drag Races, the Mardi Gras Film Festival, and Victoria Park Fair Day.

• Snag tickets for the legendary Mardi Gras party, with live performances by big-name international acts.

• Challenge yourself to a Mardi Gras–themed Sydney BridgeClimb and wave a rainbow flag from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

• Celebrate by taking in Sydney’s top attractions on a Sydney Harbour cruise, admiring the views from the Sydney Tower, taking a tour of the Sydney Opera House, or hitting the waves at Bondi Beach.

Autumn in Sydney, from March through May, brings more comfortable, cooler temperatures—and fewer crowds—than the preceding summer months. The weather is still warm enough to explore the outdoors, cruise the harbor, and even hit the beaches, and the cultural calendar is busy. Here are a few ways to enjoy the best of Sydney in the fall.

• See the city’s top attractions aboard a hop-on hop-off harbor cruise.

• Scale the heights of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with Sydney BridgeClimb.

• Soar over Sydney Harbour before enjoying a waterside meal with a private helicopter tour.

• Wine and dine your way around Paddington on a food tour.

• Visit some of the region’s best wineries on a Hunter Valley wine-tasting tour.

• Celebrate Easter out on the water on a Sydney Harbour cruise with buffet lunch.

• See the best of Sydney and the nearby Blue Mountains on a 2-day combination tour.

• Soak up 360-degree views as you enjoy a buffet meal at Sydney Tower’s revolving restaurant.

• See Madama Butterfly or another epic performance at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Sydney Opera House.

• Get memorable images of top landmarks lit up on a photography tour of Vivid Sydney, the city’s annual festival of light.

Cruising the iconic Sydney Harbour is a must-do for all visitors to the New South Wales capital, and with the activity’s popularity, there’s an option for every type of traveler. To help you choose the right cruise for you, here are our top picks.

Best for First-Timers

Australia’s biggest city can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, so get your bearings with a Sydney Harbour coffee cruise. An onboard guide provides commentary, pointing out all the top attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and best of all, you can choose between morning and afternoon tours, so it's easy to fit your cruise in around other sightseeing experiences.

Best for Those Short on Time

If you’re trying to see as much as possible in a single day, maximize your time with a short and sweet tour around the harbor. A 90-minute highlights cruise offers plenty of photo opportunities as you cruise glide past the Botanical Gardens, the Opera House, and Sydney's elegant waterfront homes.

Best for Luxury Travelers

For those looking to splash out on an unforgettable experience, the most stylish way to cruise around Sydney’s harbor is by luxury yacht. Hop aboard a luxury cruise and you'll be whisked off to a secret beach location for a traditional Aussie barbecue lunch and the opportunity to swim and kayak before sailing back to shore.

Best for Budget Travelers

If you're on a tight budget, opt for a hop on, hop off cruise and you'll not only save money but gain the freedom to set sail at any time of day (boats depart every 45 minutes). Even better, with stops at Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, and Luna Park, you won't have to shell out on public transport to get to the sights.

Best for Food Lovers

There are few more spectacular choices for a lunch date than a top deck lunch cruise in Sydney—you'll tuck into a gourmet, three-course meal while taking in a dramatic harbor view. If you'd rather finish off a day of sightseeing in style, choose an atmospheric dinner cruise and dine on an equally lavish three-course meal.

Best for Couples

Watch a sunset over Sydney on a romantic dinner cruise that offers a meal prepared by internationally renowned chefs, or surprised your loved one with a twilight dinner cruise, during which you'll share an array of fine wine and canapés aboard an authentic 1922 tall ship.

Best for Kids

Sightseeing with kids in tow can be a challenge, so keep the whole family happy by booking a tour that combines a Sydney Harbour cruise with a Taronga Zoo entry ticket. The round-trip cruise offers plenty of time to admire the waterfront attractions, but as soon as the kids start to tire of snapping photos, whisk them off to the Taronga Zoo, where they can see koalas and take in the free-flight bird show.

With miles of lush vineyards, abundant orchards, and rolling countryside, the Hunter Valley—Australia’s oldest wine-producing region—makes an idyllic daylong retreat from Sydney. Here is a rundown of some options for a perfect wine-tasting tour. 

Group Tours

Group tours to the Hunter Valley offer the biggest savings and often include hotel pickup, wine tasting at a few wineries, and lunch. If you want to experience everything the region has to offer, choose a tour that includes a visit to attractions such as the Hunter Valley Gardens or tastings of other local products such as regional cheeses, homemade chocolates, and freshly baked breads. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group tour with limited numbers or extend your trip to an overnight or multi-day tour.

Private Tours

Private tours ensure the undivided attention of your tour guide and typically can be customized to suit your preferences. Perhaps fly in by helicopter for lunch in the Hunter Valley, get the inside scoop on the region’s foodie hotspots, or enjoy a tailor-made tasting tour of the best wine estates and boutique wineries.

Things to Know

• The Hunter Valley is around 95 miles (150 kilometers) north of Sydney, or around a two-hour drive.

• Day tours from Sydney typically last between nine and 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.

• The best time for wine tasting is December through February, during harvest season, but it’s possible to visit the bigger wineries all year round.

• If you plan to tour the vineyards, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

• Most tours include hotel pickup and wine tasting fees, while some tours also include lunch, morning or afternoon tea, and entrance to other attractions such as the Australian Walkabout Wildlife Park.

Sydney springs into life from September to November, with beautiful spring blooms nurtured by mild and comfortable temperatures that are ideal for outdoor exploration and adventure. Here are a few ways to experience this incredibly diverse city in spring—one of the best times of year to visit.

• See the city’s top attractions aboard an open-air hop-on hop-off bus.

• Soar over the city’s sparkling beaches on a scenic helicopter tour.

• Get out onto the water to see migrating humpback whales on a whale-watching cruise.

• See the Blue Mountains burst with spring colors on a garden tour.

• Thoroughly explore the Blue Mountains, visit a wildlife park, ride the Scenic Railway, watch a traditional dance, and cruise the Parramatta on an all-inclusive Blue Mountains day trip.

• Head up the coast for sand dunes and diverse wildlife on a day tour to Port Stephens.

• Explore the Australian capital on a day trip to Canberra.

• Marvel at the diversity of Australia’s native critters with skip-the-line entrance to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.

• Get spooked on a ghost walking tour.

• Soak up the view and enjoy a sumptuous meal on a Sydney Harbour dinner cruise.

With its coastal location, international influences, and wealth of chefs and culinary venues, Sydney has something to satisfy every palate. Here are some of our favorite ways to eat, drink, and be merry in Australia’s largest city, from the sea to the sky.

Must-Try Dishes

In Sydney, the day starts with coffee, and that often means a flat white. Similar to a latte but with less milk and foam and a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, a flat white can be found at nearly any café you visit. Pair it with a typical Aussie breakfast of thick-cut bacon, poached eggs, and avocado on grilled toast. For lunch, head to the waterfront or Bondi Beach for fish-and-chips, or stop by a bakery for a steak-and-cheese pie. If you’re eating out for dinner, lamb and seafood are good options, or perhaps try kangaroo. Leave room for a slice of light and fluffy pavlova for dessert.

Must-Do Experiences

• Take in a 360-degree view of Sydney while enjoying lunch or dinner at the revolving Sydney Tower Restaurant.
• Fly by seaplane to a waterfront restaurant on the outskirts of the city for an adventurous take on lunch.
• Admire Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House from the water on a lunch or dinner cruise.
• Learn about the historical Rocks district on a pub tour.
• Head to the Hunter Valley wine region to sample wine and gourmet delights.
• Discover Sydney’s Chinatown and its array of Asian foods on a walking tour.
• Take a cooking class at the Sydney Fish Market.

Whether you’re on your honeymoon, celebrating Valentine’s Day, renewing your vows, or just in love, Sydney’s ocean vistas, golden beaches, and outstanding wines and food form the perfect partner to your perfect partner. Here are a few ways to feel the romance in Australia’s No. 1 city.

Enjoy a Sunset Sail

Between the opera house and the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour is a global icon. Feel the romance on a sunset sail, a dinner cruise, or even a private charter, and let the bubbles flow.

Take a Helicopter Tour

To get a sense of the sheer scale of Sydney and its beaches, opt for a helicopter tour. Soar above the city in a private aircraft just for you, or nip to the lush vineyards of the Hunter Valley for a romantic lunch.

Make Sweet Music

The Sydney Opera House is more than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site—it’s Australia’s cultural epicenter. Pair classical opera or dazzling ballet with a romantic dinner for the ultimate Sydney evening out.

Eat Dinner with a View

Sydney’s architecture and ocean views are best appreciated from a sky-high eatery. 360 Bar and Dining, a revolving restaurant 88 floors high in Sydney Tower, offers flawless modern Australian fare.

Sydney heats up in the summer months, December to February, making this the best time to soak up Australian beach culture and explore stunning nearby scenery such as the Blue Mountains. It’s also a time of great cultural activity and seasonal festivities, making summer one of the best times to visit Sydney. Here are a few ways to enjoy it.

• See the city’s top sights in a short time on a morning or afternoon sightseeing tour.

• Learn to catch some waves with a surfing lesson on Bondi Beach.

• Save money at top attractions and create your own itinerary with the Sydney Attraction Pass.

• Explore the natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Blue Mountains on a day trip with river cruise.

• See Australia’s diverse animals in their natural habitats on a 4WD wildlife tour.

• Explore Australia’s oldest wine-producing region on a Hunter Valley wine-tasting tour.

• Celebrate the season as you soak up the sights of Sydney Harbour on a Christmas Day lunch cruise.

• Hear opera singers perform arias and get a from-row view of Sydney’s fireworks at the New Year’s Eve Opera Gala at the Sydney Opera House.

• Enjoy a festive meal while sailing through the harbor on a New Year’s Eve tall ship dinner cruise.

• Ring in the New Year with a 6-course meal and unrivaled fireworks views at Sydney Tower 360 Bar and Dining.

Sydney is a big city, spread along a lengthy coastline and inland to the foot of the Blue Mountains. You could rent a car, but there’s really no need, as the city has a good public transportation network of buses, trains, and ferries. Tour operators offer other ways to travel around, too. Here are your options.

Public Transit: Trains, Buses, and Ferries

Hop on a train to get around the central city. To visit outer districts such as the Northern Beaches, buses are a solid option. As Sydney is set on a large harbor and long coastline, ferries are also a common and scenic way of getting around—the Manly Ferry is especially popular with travelers. Save money by purchasing a daily or weekly pass that covers the entire public transportation network.

Cruises

A relaxing way to see the city, harbor cruises usually include commentary on local attractions, as well as a meal or refreshments. Choose an evening cruise for a nighttime view of Sydney.

Walking Tours

Walking tours of areas such as the Rocks and Circular Quay are a fun way to learn about Sydney. Some tours focus on a theme such as history or ghost stories.

Running and Cycling Tours

With temperate weather year-round, Sydney is a great place to be outdoors. If you’re after something a bit more active than a walking tour and want to cover more ground, check out the city’s variety of running and biking tours. 

Helicopter Tours

For a bird’s-eye look at Sydney, treat yourself to a helicopter tour—and savor views of the beautiful coastline, beaches, and forests.

Private Car

For the ultimate in comfort, sightseeing flexibility, and personal attention, book a private tour of Sydney. Whisked around in a private vehicle, you can stop wherever you like and visit more obscure destinations that other tours don’t include.

With miles of sun-bleached sands and big blue waves, Sydney is home to some of Australia’s best beaches. And you don’t have to go far from Sydney Harbour to get your fix of sun, sea, and surf—here are some of the top city beach areas in Sydney.

Bondi Beach

Sydney’s most famous beach, Bondi Beach is quintessentially Aussie with its beachside bars, golden sands, and hoards of tanned surfers. It’s also the filming site of popular reality TV show “Bondi Rescue;” watching the blue-suited lifeguards in action is a top pastime for visitors.

Coogee Beach

Just south of Bondi Beach, the calm swimming areas of Coogee Beach makes it a good place to swim or cut your teeth on a surf or paddleboard. For the best views, take the scenic route and walk the four-mile (6-kilometer) trail between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach, looking out for whales and dolphins from the coastal cliffs along the way.

Manly and the Northern Beaches

Sydney’s northern beaches lie past Sydney Harbour Heads, with Manly Beach serving as the largest and most popular. Reached by ferry from Circular Quay, it’s an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking, while the surrounding beaches, including Shelly Beach, Narrabeen, and Dee Why, have a reputation for big waves and world-class surf.

Palm Beach

Less than an hour north of central Sydney by road, Palm Beach is better known as its on-screen alter-ego ‘Summer Beach’ from hit Australian TV soap “Home and Away.” Fans of the show can not only dive into the clear waters, but take a tour of famous sets from the show such as the Summer Bay Surf Club, Alf's Bait Shop, the boathouse, and the lighthouse.

Balmoral Beach

The calm waters and sandy shores of Balmoral Beach make it ideal for swimming and local families with kids. Add to that a backdrop of luxurious villas, palm-lined parks, and glamorous yachts, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.

With its iconic façade and location at the heart of Sydney Harbour, there’s no missing the Sydney Opera House. It's a highlight of city tours and cruises, but to fully experience the venue, book a night at the opera. Here's what you need to know.

Highlights

• Experience the birthplace of Australian Opera with a performance by Opera Australia or the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

• Enjoy performances of classic operas by Mozart, Rossini, Bizet, and more.

• Make a night of it with a pre-show dinner at a nearby restaurant or a guided backstage tour of the opera house.

• For an extra special experience, attend the New Year's Opera Gala—one of the most sought-after tickets of the year.

Things to Know

• The main opera season runs from April to December, but performances take place all year round.

• Sydney Opera House is located on Bennelong Point overlooking Sydney Harbour.

• It's about a 5- to 10-minute walk to the Sydney Opera House from Circular Quay (a shuttle bus is also available).

• Matinee and evening performances are held most days, and there are four seating options to choose from.

• Bags larger than a handbag must be checked into the cloakroom.

• All theaters at the Sydney Opera House are wheelchair accessible.

Whether you’re a born-and-bred Sydneysider or just a seasoned visitor, you may think you’ve seen everything Australia’s biggest city has to offer. Well, think again. Here are fun some ways to rediscover—or introduce your guests to—the magic of Sydney.

• Challenge yourself to the Sydney BridgeClimb to scale the summit of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoy panoramic views of Sydney, the Northern Beaches, and the distant Blue Mountains.

• Attend the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Handa Opera, set on a floating stage in Sydney Harbour.

• Go behind the scenes of one of Australia’s longest running TV shows, “Home & Away,” with a tour of Palm Beach.

• Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and sipping cocktails aboard a luxury yacht as you cruise around Sydney Harbour National Park.

• Peek backstage at one of the world’s most famous venues on a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.

• Add a VIP twist to your lunch plans with a seaplane flight and romantic lunch date at the Cottage Point Inn in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

• Hike the coastal walk between Bondi Beach and Coogee, and enjoy spectacular views from the coastal cliffs.

There's no shortage of ways to get outside in Sydney. From harborside nature reserves to lovingly landscaped royal gardens and postmodern playgrounds, an inviting green space is never far away in the Australian capital. Here are our top picks. 

Hyde Park

Australia's oldest public park, this is a favorite refuge for city dwellers looking for a break from the bustle of Sydney’s central business district. Tree-lined avenues and ample lighting make it a great spot for a stroll from dawn to dusk, while an ANZAC memorial and St. Mary’s Cathedral across the street add a dose of culture. 

Tumbalong Park

A favorite with families, this circular park on Darling Harbor is a great stop for all ages to burn off some energy, with picnic areas, challenge courses, and a playground anchored by a giant spider web climbing structure. On hot days, bring swim gear and let the kids splash around in interactive water features, or visit at night to frolic among illuminated fountains and sculptures.

Barangaroo Reserve

A newer addition to Sydney’s green spaces, this sustainably landscaped park on the Sydney Harbor headlands pays tribute to Australia’s indigenous heritage with Aboriginal cultural markers and terraced gardens made from locally quarried sandstone and native plant species. Check event listings to see what's happening at the Cutaway cultural space beneath the reserve.

Centennial Park

The sheer size of this sprawling green space makes you forget you're in the middle of a major city. Walking paths lace across grassy meadows perfect for pick-up ball games, and multiple lakes provide a home for more than 140 different species of birds. Bring your binoculars and some breadcrumbs and spend a peaceful morning bird-watching. 

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

For a fragrant respite near Sydney Harbour, pop into these 200-year-old gardens planted with native Australian and exotic species. Kids will delight in a ride on the Choo Choo Express train, while Aboriginal walking tours offer insight into indigenous experiences.

With its crystalline waters hemmed in by towering dunes and lush woodlands, Port Stephens is one of New South Wales' most enticing beach towns. The coastal area makes a popular day trip destination from Sydney—here are your options for visiting.

Dolphin Watching Day Trips

The warm waters around Port Stephens are a breeding ground for bottlenose dolphins. and dolphin-watching cruises are a popular activity for day-trippers. Catamaran cruises typically last 1.5 to 2 hours and leave from Nelson Bay, stopping at strategic viewpoints to increase your chances of a wild dolphin encounter. Most cruises offer the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the ocean, and some include lunch or afternoon tea served onboard.

Adventure Day Trips

Adventurous travelers will find plenty of excitement in Port Stephens, with adrenaline-fueled activities including camel rides on the beach, wildlife spotting at the Australian Reptile Park, 4WD tours along the coast, and sandboarding at the Stockton Bight Sand Dunes. There are tours to suit all tastes, so opt for a fun day at the beach; book an action-packed activity; or upgrade to a private tour for a personalized experience. 

Things to Know

• Port Stephens is about 110 miles (180 km) north of Sydney, about two hours away by road.

• Day tours from Sydney can last up to 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.

• Be sure to pack sunscreen and plenty of water, plus your swimsuit and towel if you plan to hit the beach or take part in water activities.

• Tours typically include hotel pickup, entrance fees, and round-trip transport, but some optional activities must be booked in advance.

Australia’s largest and oldest city, Sydney is best-known for its harbor, the opera house, and the Harbour Bridge. But whether your tastes run to history or dinosaurs, waxworks or magic, its museums deliver the goods. Here are our top picks.

Australian National Maritime Museum

A must for kids and history buffs alike, the Australian National Maritime Museum showcases the nation’s tens of thousands of years of maritime history. Exhibits run from Aboriginal canoes to a submarine, from a replica of Captain Cook’s HMS Endeavour to a history of migration, as well as short films and special exhibitions.

Powerhouse Museum

Set to relocate in January 2020, this vast museum occupies a converted power station not far from Darling Harbour. A great choice with kids, thanks to its focus on science and design, the interactive exhibits will please adults too. Discover everything from up-to-the-minute robots to the art of lace.

Australian Museum

With a history dating back to not long after the first settlers landed in Botany Bay, the Australian Museum spans the gamut from dinosaurs to extinct giant animals, from geology to Aboriginal spiritual beliefs. School holidays see a wealth of kids’ activities.

Sydney Jewish Museum

After World War II, around 27,000 Holocaust survivors made their way to Australia. The Sydney Jewish Museum tells their stories, alongside those of other Jewish people who settled here: 16 arrived on 1788’s First Fleet.

Australian Museum of Magical Arts

Set inside the Magician’s Cabaret Theatre, which hosts regular magic shows, the Australian Museum of Magical Arts provides a fascinating glimpse into the art, craft, and mind of the conjuror.

Madame Tussauds

The Sydney branch of the global waxwork brand continues to perform in the selfie era. Eerily realistic wax models include Australian celebrities from Kylie to Chris Hemsworth, while Marvel characters and interactive fashion shows update Tussauds for the 21st century.

Sydney may be Australia’s biggest city, but Canberra holds the title of national capital and political heart. And you don’t have to choose between the two—Canberra’s historic center is compact enough to explore on a day tour from Sydney. Here’s how. 

Highlights

• Enjoy panoramic views of Canberra and Lake Burley Griffin from the summit of Mt. Ainslie.

• Learn more about Australia’s war history and ANZAC troops with a tour of the Australian War Memorial.

• Visit the Parliament House and see The Lodge, the Prime Minister's residence in Canberra.

• Browse the exhibitions at the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, or the National Portrait Gallery.

Things to Know

• Canberra is about 174 miles (280 kilometers) southwest of Sydney, a journey of about three hours by road.

• Day tours from Sydney typically last between 12 and 13 hours, so prepare for a long excursion.

• Be sure to bring your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and water and snacks for the journey. Some tours may include meals or time to stop for lunch independently.

• Some tours include hotel pickup and entrance fees to top attractions such as the Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Museum of Australia.

Whether you’re seeking antiques, high-end fashion, or vintage threads, Sydney’s shopping scene is as chic and sophisticated as the city itself. Here are a few suggestions for the best places to shop in the capital of New South Wales. 

The Rocks Markets

For some laid-back shopping in the heart of one of Sydney’s most historic districts, head to the Rocks Markets, held every weekend on the cobbled streets of the enclave. Vendors sell everything from vegetables and fruit to clothing and souvenirs, and street performers are a regular fixture.  

Queen Victoria Building (QVB)

A shopping center and feat of architecture rolled into one, the QVB is a must-see for visitors in Sydney for the first time. A spectacular stained-glass dome reflects light onto several levels of shops, all of which are linked by grand staircases and tiled floors. Shops range from specialist stores such as stationers and couturiers to coffee shops.  

Pitt Street Mall

Home to one of the city’s largest collections of high-street shops, Pitt Street Mall is in the heart of Sydney’s central business district. The center’s convenient location means that it’s easily combined with a trip to Centre Quay, where you’ll find the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge—two of the Harbour City’s top attractions.    

Harbourside Shopping Centre

Due to its close proximity to top Darling Harbour attractions such as Sydney Aquarium and Cockle Bay, Harbourside Shopping Centre is a great choice for families. As well as hundreds of shops, the mall is home to an IMAX cinema and bowling alley, making it ideal for travelers with kids in tow.