New South Wales

Pack high expectations. Sydney is perhaps the most vibrant and beautiful city on the planet. Set on a spectacular harbour, studded by an iconic skyline, fringed with lovely beaches, dotted with trendy neighborhoods — Sydney is an experience.

Start with a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Opera House. Then hop aboard a private cruise out on the glimmering bay. The young and young at heart will enjoy a few hours at Taronga Zoo, Wildlife World or the mesmerizing Sydney Aquarium. Those with the energy will love a sunset climb up the Harbour Bridge.

Hungry? We’ll help you walk past the wait list at Sydney’s top restaurants or give you directions to an out-of-the-way cafe. Then rise early for a fascinating tour of the Sydney Fish Market.

Hit the beaches. Take a surf lesson at vibrant Bondi Beach. Walk the pleasant coast at Manly Beach. Or hop a ferry to secluded beaches with a view of the city skyline.

Head 2 hours west to the Blue Mountains. Take a scenic flight over blue-hazed valleys, eucalyptus forest, sandstone cliffs and rainforest. Try a champagne breakfast with kangaroos. Spend a day hiking the Three Sisters rock formations or a night viewing wildlife.

To the north is the Hunter Valley — famous for its food and wine. Take a morning to soar by hot air balloon over the valley, then spend an afternoon sampling Australian Shiraz, olive oil, cheese and chocolate.

Got time? Get off the beaten track. Go to Byron Bay (way up north by Brisbane), a laid-back coastal town with a granola vibe. Or fly out to Lord Howe Island — a beach and forest paradise teeming with exotic birdlife where the primary form of transportation is a bicycle.

New South Wales – Top Activities

Spend hours and days sightseeing in Sydney
Taste the best of modern Australian cuisine at Sydney’s top restaurants
Toast your traveling companion at a champagne breakfast with kangaroos in the Blue Mountains