New South Wales Travelers Recommend

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The small town of Byron Bay offers plenty of ways to fill a long weekend. A range of amenities and sights—from hippie-style shops and surf schools to a stupa blessed by the Dalai Lama—have made Byron a popular stop for travelers heading down the Gold Coast from Brisbane. Here are a few ways to enjoy a 3-day stay in Byron Bay. 

Day 1: Explore the Sights

Start your trip by exploring Byron Bay’s many offerings. Visit shops, local art galleries, cafes, and restaurants in town, and enjoy seasonal farmers markets and festivals. Immerse yourself in the crafty, creative spirit of Byron at the Arts and Industry Estate, or check out the World Peace Stupa, which is housed inside the Crystal Castle at the nearby Shambhala Gardens. 

In the afternoon, meander through villages like Mullumbimby and Nimbin, or spend an entire day swimming under rain forest waterfalls. If the weather's right, take a dip down at the conveniently-located Main Beach. Most guided tours of the area combine several area highlights on half- or full-day itineraries. 

Day 2: Beach Adventures

Start the day off early with a surfing lesson on Byron Bay's Main Beach. Known for its nice breaks and overall gentle nature, the beach is popular with both beginners and experienced surfers. After your morning workout, pause for breakfast, then heading off for a late morning walk along the Cape Byron Walking Track. This trail takes visitors to the Captain Cook lookout, Wategos Beach (where you can stop for a swim), and the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

If you’d rather see these sights from above, try a tandem skydive. Not only is the freefall experience exhilarating, but it also offers a scenic overhead view of the area. (If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales, dolphins, rays, and more in the region's waters.) Before heading back to town for some late afternoon shopping and dinner, explore more beaches, including Wategos and Little Wategos. 

Day 3: Day Trips by Land or Sea

On your last day, enjoy the gorgeous landscapes outside of Byron Bay. Head to Wollumbin National Park (formerly known as Mount Warning National Park), about an hour from town, and hike through the UNESCO-listed subtropical rainforest to the mountain’s summit for panoramic views. You can also book an overnight adventure in the park that includes kayaking and a campfire dinner. Alternatively, opt for a hike in Nightcap National Park, another World Heritage site in the hinterlands where you can cool off from your hike with a refreshing swim at Minyon Falls.

If you prefer snorkeling or scuba diving to hiking, take a boat to Julian Rocks Marine Reserve. The unique area has plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and is home to a variety of animal species that enjoy the warm currents that come down from the north. Be sure to bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful fish, rays, turtles, and sharks.

Though it's nearly impossible to see all of the natural and architectural beauty that New South Wales has to offer, there are some attractions that shouldn’t be missed. The capital city of Sydney, in particular, holds much for travelers. See below for our list of can’t-miss experiences in Australia’s most populous region.

See the Sydney Opera House

This cultural icon and UNESCO World Heritage Site has a prominent position, perched on Sydney Harbour. You’ll see it on a harbor cruise or while walking along the waterfront. However, to best experience the venue, book a ticket for a show. If you’re not an opera fan, don’t worry; Broadway musicals are usually part of the performance season, as well. 

Get Some Sun at Bondi Beach

On Sydney’s eastern edge, Bondi is the city’s most popular beach, attracting locals and visitors for swimming, surfing, and taking in the crowded yet laid-back beach scene. Grab your towel and hit the sand if you just want to relax, or take a surf lesson to experience a piece of the local lifestyle. Lessons typically start on land before heading into the water to practice your skills with an instructor.

Get Outdoors at Blue Mountains National Park

Head west of Sydney into the Blue Mountains for an outdoorsy break from the city bustle. Day trips to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region typically highlight natural features like the Three Sisters rock formation, Katoomba Falls, and Jamison Valley, and some add rides on the Scenic World skyway, cableway, or railway for views of the mountain landscape.

Experience the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Connecting the Rocks district to the North Shore, Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world’s tallest steel arch bridge and is as integral to the Sydney skyline as the Opera House. Though you can walk or bike across it, or simply admire it on a harbor cruise, the ultimate way to experience the structure is the BridgeClimb, where you’ll ascend to the 440-foot (134-meter) summit for a panoramic view of the city.

With its small town charm, eclectic shops, art galleries, and lovely cafes, Byron Bay can be anything from relaxing to energizing. Visitors to this coastal enclave have easy access to beautiful beaches, a scenic headland, and lots of outdoor activities. Here’s how to get the best from Byron Bay in just one day. 

Morning: Cape Byron Marine Life

Head to the cape, Australia’s easternmost point, and search the Pacific Ocean for marine life, including dolphins and migrating humpback whales (which are in the area from June to October). You can take advantage of the vista from atop the Cape Byron lighthouse, or get out onto the water—a whale-watching cruise increases your chances of spotting the mammals, and you may even be able to hear whale songs with specialized devices. You can also go sea kayaking; the crystal-clear, warm waters of protected Byron Bay make for gentle, rolling waves. Go with a guide who knows the terrain and will point out any bottlenose dolphins in the area. 

Afternoon: Into the Water

Now that the sun is at its hottest, it’s time to dive in. Byron Bay is famous for its beaches, and the tranquil breaks are ideal for learning to surf. Novices (or anyone wanting to brush up on their technique) can take a private or small-group lesson to practice skills, ranging from popping up on the board to catching a wave, with other like-minded travelers. Alternatively, book a snorkeling or scuba diving tour of Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, which is teeming with manta rays, wobbegong sharks, and three species of sea turtles, not to mention hundreds of types of fish. 

Night: Shoreline Serenity

Before you head into town to enjoy Byron’s restaurants, consider an evening paddle. The nearby Brunswick River is a popular place to see the local wildlife, and the birds are especially active around the saltmarsh and wetlands before night falls. Opt for a stand-up paddleboard or kayak tour; guides usually take out small groups, demonstrate basic paddling skills, and point out wildlife that you might not spot on your own. Dip your paddle into the serene waterway, slip past sand dunes and tea tree-lined lakes (ideal for swimming), and be sure to linger at the beach to enjoy the sunset.

Spending two days in Byron Bay allows you lots of time to enjoy the area’s scenic beaches and head out on a variety of adventures. Get onto the water, or adopt a bird’s-eye view from the lookout point of a lighthouse or a hot air balloon. Here’s how to make the most of a 2-day stay in Byron Bay.  

Day 1: Make the Most of the Beaches

**Morning:**Start the day with a beachfront yoga session, or get into the Byron spirit with an overnight package that combines stretching with surfing. Whether you’re an aspiring or established yogi, you’ll find plenty of restorative options to strengthen and balance—a perfect way to prepare you for popping up on a surfboard to catch a wave.

**Afternoon:**Devote the afternoon to more fun in the sun. Shake out your sarong on the soft sands of Main Beach, or take a stroll over to the headland for a look at Cape Byron’s lighthouse, which overlooks Australia’s easternmost point. You can visit with a guide or rent a bike. 

**Night:**Soak up the evening sounds of wildlife on the waterways around Byron; the mangroves and marshlands are rich with native flora and fauna. You can toast the sunset on a cruise around Ballina Island and the Richmond River Nature Reserve, or paddle through on a kayak. 

Day 2: To the Hinterland

**Morning:**Rise early for a hot air balloon flight and see the sunrise from above. Cast your gaze over the coastline and the forested slopes Mount Warning (Wollumbin), which towers over Byron Bay’s hinterland. Rather stay grounded? Consider a guided tour of nearby towns like Bangalow, which is located in the Northern Rivers region. 

**Afternoon:**Most travelers are drawn to Byron Bay for its shoreline, but not far from the coast you’ll also find plunging waterfalls. Volcanic rocks create swimming holes around the rain forest just outside Nimbin, while Minyon Falls has a lookout that boasts views that stretch over the treetops all the way to the sea.

**Night:**By day it’s quite possible to find Australian wildlife, from kangaroos and wallabies to koalas feeding on eucalyptus. But you’ll want to set off after dark with a guide and a pair of special goggles to aid your night vision if you want to spot nocturnal marsupials like pademelon and bandicoot.

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.

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 white sand stretching from Cape Byron up into Queensland and the Gold Coast, Byron Bay spoils sun-seekers for choice. Whether you want to learn to surf, enjoy water sports, or party at a beach bar, here are our picks of the best Byron Bay beaches.  

Main Beach

Byron’s most frequented beach is the aptly named Main Beach, located a short stroll from the shops and restaurants of the town. With a view of the Cape Byron headland and stunning sunsets, it's one of the region’s most beautiful beaches and a popular choice for families.

Clarkes Beach

Just down the strip from Main Beach, Clarkes Beach is a perfect destination for outdoor activities, with ample opportunities to enjoy water sports, take a surf class, or play a game of beach volleyball. The rocky coastline also harbors some great snorkeling spots. 

The Pass

East of Main Beach, The Pass is renowned for its world-class surf and and is a great place to spot dolphins and whales in winter. It’s also the starting point for snorkeling and scuba diving expeditions to Julian Rocks and hikes along the Cape Byron Walking Track.

Wategos Beach

On the northern coast of Cape Byron, the beaches of Wategos and Little Wategos offer sheltered waters ideal for swimming in a more secluded location, one set a good distance away from the crowds of the town beaches. From here, it’s an easy to visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse or the Most Easterly Point of the Australian Mainland.

An area of stunning natural beauty, home to dense forests, sandstone cliffs, dramatic canyons, and waterfalls, the Blue Mountains region is a highlight of any trip to Australia. With just one day, you’ll want to see as much of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as possible, so here’s how to make the most of one day in the Blue Mountains.

Morning: Take in the Region’s Sights

Many travelers visit the Blue Mountains on a day trip from Sydney. Most tour options include transport from the city, which saves you the stress of driving or booking train tickets separately. Regardless of whether you’re day-tripping or staying the night, take in the area’s most important landmarks this morning, such as the Three Sisters and Echo Point lookouts. Alternatively, if you arrive by train independently, a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour departing from Katoomba Railway Station lets you explore the area at your own pace.

Afternoon: Wildlife and Aerial Views

Head to Scenic World this afternoon, where you can enjoy unlimited access to all of its attractions with an all-day pass. You can ride the Scenic Railway along the Jamison Valley floor, hike the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) Scenic Walkway, or enjoy spectacular views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, and Jamison Valley aboard the Scenic Cableway or Scenic Skyway. Alternatively, spend your afternoon getting acquainted with some of Australia’s most iconic native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park, home to Tasmanian devils, koalas, wallabies, and wombats. The park offers keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos and emus under supervision.

Night: Delve Deeper and Dine

True wildlife fans can take a nighttime tour of nearby Wollemi National Park, within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area, to discover its nocturnal wildlife. On a guided walk by spotlight, you’ll learn more about the behavior of  wombats, sugar gliders, kangaroos, and owls, as well as the history, ecology, and geology that make the landscape unique. Otherwise, round out your day with a leisurely dinner in Katoomba, Blackheath, Leura, or Blax. The popularity of trips to the Blue Mountains among Sydneysiders has inspired a raft of excellent restaurants, many of which use locally sourced produce and take advantage of the bounty of nearby wineries.

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.

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.

Most travelers visit the Blue Mountains UNESCO World Heritage Site on a day trip from Sydney, but this region, replete with stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich indigenous culture, deserves more of your time. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in the Blue Mountains.

Day 1: Check Out the Sights

**Morning:**Check off the most important landmarks, such as the Three Sisters and Echo Point lookouts, and get an introduction to the region on a private or group sightseeing tour. Alternatively, a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour, departing from Katoomba Railway Station, lets you explore at your own pace.

**Afternoon:**Embark on an easy hike from Leura Cascades to Bridal Veil Falls or opt for the more challenging Echo Point Trail, in which the Giant Stairway leads to the Three Sisters. 

**Night:**Stick around Katoomba for the evening, as the town is home to some excellent restaurants serving locally sourced produce. You’ll find a diverse cluster of eateries on and around the main drag, Katoomba Street, and higher-end restaurants inside the town’s hotels and resorts. 

Day 2: Dive Deeper Into the Natural Surroundings

**Morning:**Kick off your second day adventurously on an abseiling tour, taking in unparalleled views of the Blue Mountains as you rappel down a rock face. Tours are typically suitable even for those with little or no experience and include all abseiling equipment.

**Afternoon:**Spend this afternoon exploring the attractions of Scenic World. An all-day pass gives you unlimited access to the Scenic Railway, the world’s steepest incline railway; the 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) Scenic Walkway elevated boardwalk; the Scenic Cableway, an aerial cable car; and the glass-floored Scenic Skyway, which glides between cliff tops and over rain forest canopy.

**Night:**Conclude your visit to the Blue Mountains on an evening tour of Wollemi National Park to discover its nocturnal wildlife. With the aid of a spotlight and guide, you’ll have the chance to learn about and see wombats, sugar gliders, kangaroos, and owls.

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.