Sydney, Australia Travel: Must-See Sights and Experiences

One of the most sought after destinations for adventure seekers is none other than Sydney, Australia. The capital of New South Wales offers a variety of exhilarating and unique experiences that belong on anyone's bucket list. From climbing to the very top of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge to ascending over the ancient vines of Australia's oldest wine region via hot air balloon, this city and surrounding areas have countless activities and sights waiting to be experienced. Sydney truly offers an array of bucket-list adventures that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories and desire to come back.

 

Australia’s national carrier, Qantas, recently relaunched direct flights to San Francisco for the first time in over three years, reopening another option for travelers to fly Down Under.

Qantas will operate three return flights per week between San Francisco and Sydney with its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, offering more than 1,400 seats on the route each week. From San Francisco, it's an effortless 13 hour flight allowing for a relatively easy getaway to the otherside of the world. Qantas plans on adding more flights from Los Angeles and New York from later this year.

 

BridgeClimb Sydney is an iconic Australian experience that will leave you in awe of this city's beauty. This excursion takes guests on a journey that scales the arches of the nation’s most famous structure, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and insights about the bridge's history and its significance to the city. Guests enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline, particularly at its peak, which include the majestic Opera House, Indigenous landmark,; and the sparkling waters below. Afterwards, dine at Clam Bar, a retro restaurant inspired by the great steakhouses of New York.

 

Imagine the serenity of gliding through the calm waters of Sydney Harbour in a kayak at the break of dawn, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as your backdrop. With Sydney By Kayak, guests are invited to enjoy their morning coffee as the sun begins to rise and cast a golden hue on the city. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind perspective bridge as your guides take you along a peaceful morning kayak adventure to remember that includes interesting stories about the bridge's history and significance.

 

The Sydney Opera House is celebrating 50 years this year. As a World Heritage-listed masterpiece and architectural marvel, its iconic sail-like design creates one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the world. Be sure to take a behind the scenes tour of the interiors of this cultural landmark which hosts a diverse range of performances, including ballet, theater, opera, and more. For an exceptional night at the opera, dine at the Bennelong, one of Australia's best restaurants which features Australian fine dining.

 

You can't look at the harbour without seeing a Manly Ferry, so why not jump on? This is a classic Sydney adventure that offers guests a fun way to get to Manly, a destination that features scenic beaches, restaurants and bars and coastal walks. The short ferry ride passes the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, Kirribilli House (official residence of the Prime Minister), Bradleys Head and South Head, Luna Park, and more.

 

Located just a few hours from Sydney is Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest continuous grape growing region. Its first vines were planted in the 1820s and today is home to some of the oldest vine stock in the world. Hunter Valley is most known for its Semillon, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Verdelho and offers an upscale dining scene with stand out restaurants that include Muse and Botanica. This picturesque region boasts rolling vineyards, charming cellar doors, and award-winning wineries that include family-owned Tyrrell’s, an iconic Australian wine brand since 1858 and Audrey Wilkinson Vineyard, the second oldest vineyard in the area since 1866.

For overnight guests, check in to Spicer's Vineyard Estates, a charming property with its very own private estate of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Keep your eyes open for kangaroos bouncing through the vineyards.

 

For a special experience, book a hot air balloon ride over Hunter Valley with Balloon Aloft. In 1980, Balloon Aloft offered the very first passenger balloon flights in Australia and over 40 years later are still wowing guests with their curated experiences. With a sunrise flight comes spectacular views of a tranquil Hunter Valley. Soar above the breathtaking landscapes as the beauty of the region unfolds beneath you. With the balloon gently ascending, you'll witness the sprawling vineyards, lush greenery, and meandering rivers from a unique vantage point. After your ride enjoy bubbles and breakfast at Peterson House.

 

A visit to Sydney isn't complete without a Bondi Beach day. With its golden sands, turquoise waters and lively beach culture this iconic coastal gem offers an unforgettable beach experience like no other. Start your morning off at a local cafe at Bondi Pavilion and take a stroll along the cliff top coastal walk which features stunning views of cliffs, bays and rock pools. Don't miss out on the famous Bondi Markets for some shopping and local crafts and be sure to check out the legendary Icebergs Pool. This is the most photographed ocean pool in Australia offers crystal-clear waters that blend seamlessly with the ocean, creating a stunning vista. For an upscale lunch or dinner, take a seat at Icebergs for modern Italian food.

 

Vivid Sydney is a spectacular festival that transforms the city into a mesmerizing canvas of light, and color during the winter season. Its captivating light shows and installations illuminate iconic landmarks, as well as buildings and sidewalks. Visitors are immersed in a world of dazzling displays, immersive projections, and interactive experiences, making Vivid Sydney an unforgettable celebration of art, technology, and music. Popular events include Dark Spectrum, an electronic labyrinth within abandoned railway tunnels and Lightscape, a beautiful, multi-sensory experience in the Royal Botanical Garden. Close out a post-Vivid Sydney with a cozy Italian meal at Pellegrino 2000 and gelato from Messina which offers over 40 fresh flavors.

For close proximity to everything, check in to the InterContinental Sydney set within the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851. This property features breath-taking panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

 

With over a million annual visitors, the Art Gallery of New South Wales offers an impressive collection of art within the lush parklands overlooking Sydney Harbour, just a short 15-minute walk from the city center. In 2023, the Art Gallery underwent a transformative project, unveiling the new Art Gallery of New South Wales New Building. This landmark initiative has expanded the museum into a two-building art institution, nearly doubling the exhibition space for a diverse range of artists. From Aboriginal art and culture to the works of women like Yayoi Kusama, it is the most important public gallery in the city and one of the largest in Australia.

 

Located about an hour and 15 minutes West of Sydney are The Blue Mountains National Park is one of the most famous parks in the country. With over 400 species of animals, 100 hiking trails and countless camping grounds, it is definitely a worthwhile day trip from Sydney. While there, be sure to explore The Three Sisters, iconic group of sandstone rocks at Echo Point;Wentworth Falls; and the Katoomba Scenic Railway for spectacular views of the mountains.