Sydney is home to the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and is undoubtedly one of the most popular holiday destinations in Australia. The eclectic city is alive with a cosmopolitan mix of culture, from high-street shopping on Pitt Street to hipster cafes nestled in the suburbs. Sydney also boasts gorgeous beaches including the infamous Bondi Beach, as well as stunning national parks a bit further out from the CBD.
High Tea at Gunners Barracks
Located in one of Sydney’s most spectacular and historic sites, Gunners Barracks serves up an indulgent high tea menu to enjoy with its commanding views of the Sydney Harbour. Savour freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and petite cakes along with sparkling cocktails or 41 speciality teas for you to choose from.
See a show at the Opera House
With over 40 shows a week, the Sydney Opera House has something for everyone. From ballets and orchestras to Shakespearean plays and opera performances, enjoy a world-class performance at Sydney’s most iconic landmark. Make a night of it and enjoy a pre-dinner drink or aperitif at the Opera Bar just outside. A lively venue with spectacular harbour bridge views, you may be lucky enough to catch some live ambient music on your way home.
Spit to Manly Walk
Explore one of Sydney’s most beautiful classic walking tracks, the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. This 10km coastal walk takes you past stunning views of the Middle Harbour, groves of tangled trees, sculptural rock shelves and dramatic colour-shifting cliffs. The track is a mix of paved walkways, boardwalk, and well-maintained bush tracks, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Picnic at Wattamolla
Just under an hour’s drive south of the CBD, Wattamolla is nestled within the Royal National Park and a popular picnic area choice. Boasting Wattamolla Beach, a lagoon, waterfall, lookout, and a designated picnic area, this is also the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, or kayaking on a summer day. Quick tip, we advise a weekday visit to avoid the weekend crowds!
Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Twilight Dinner Cruise
Step aboard a beautiful authentic timber tall ship and cruise past the stunning Sydney Harbour as you enjoy a twilight dinner cruise soaking in the grandeur of this historic vessel . Enjoy a 3-course meal while watching the sunset over the harbour and the twinkling city lights. Add a drinks package or a Mast Climb experience to make your cruise even more memorable.
Catch a ferry or sleepover at Taronga Zoo
Australia’s largest zoo is just a 12-minute ferry ride away from Circular Quay. Experience breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge before arriving on the other side of the Harbour. Spend the day marvelling at 5000 animals, from Australian native wildlife to lions and giraffes in the African Savannah to exciting marine life. Continue your adventure with an overnight stay at the safari-style Roar & Snore. Fall asleep to the sounds of animals at your doorstep, recounting untold stories of the Zoo. Get up close and personal with multiple animal encounters, including hand feeding the magnificent resident Giraffe.
Visit the Sydney Fish Market
Located just a short distance from Sydney CBD in Pyrmont, the Sydney Fish Market is the largest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere. Featuring an array of seafood from Prawns to Oysters, Rockobsters to Scampi and Sea Urchin, this stop is sure to delight any seafood lover. Experience the vibrant, authentic market atmosphere and enjoy a range of seafood delicacies at the many cafes, restaurants, wholesale auctions, working wharves, and fresh produce retailers located nearby.
Take a dip and stroll along the beach at Neilsen Park
Nestled within the peaceful Eastern suburbs of Vaucluse is the gorgeous Neilson Park. The perfect place to escape the bustle of the city and relax at Neilsen Park’s glistening Shark Beach. Also known for its many picturesque picnic spots, enjoy lunch and stretch out on the grass with glorious harbour views spreading out before you. Don’t forget to stop over at Vaucluse House, one of Sydney’s few remaining 19th-century mansions. Explore the lush, secluded gardens and learn about the history of this heritage building, home to the colonial explorer, barrister and politician William Charles Wentworth.
Hotel Accommodation
Park Hyatt Sydney
Offering spectacular views of Sydney’s incredible harbour, the Opera House & the Harbour Bridge, this hotel is prime in location for your luxury Sydney visit.
Click here for more information and accommodation options for travel in New South Wales.
Image credits: Destination NSW, Tourism Australia, James Busby, James Horan, Andrew Gregory, Taronga Zoo, Kristi Gomm and Park Hyatt Sydney.