Things to do in Sydney & New South Wales 

“P. Sherman, 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney” – if that line rings a bell, you’re not alone. The city has long lived in the minds of millennials thanks to Finding Nemo. But beyond being just a pop culture reference, Sydney is also known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and buzzing food scene. It’s a destination that ticks all the right boxes for an easygoing escape.

Even better, it’s easier to get to than you think. Singapore Airlines flies direct from Singapore to Sydney in under 8 hours, making it one of the most accessible long-haul getaways around. The city also makes a great base for exploring nearby regions in New South Wales such as the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, and Hunter Valley. So, read on for our recommendations on the best things to do, sorted by location.

Why is Spring a good time to visit Sydney & New South Wales? 

Spring, from September to November, is the ideal time to visit Sydney and New South Wales. First of all, temperatures range from 11°C-23°C, ideal for Singaporeans looking to escape the heat but still want to explore in comfort. Plus, you get to avoid the summer tourist crowds.

– Things to do in Sydney & New South Wales –

– Sydney –

1. Chase the purple bloom during Jacaranda season

Image credit: Kirribilli

Sydney in spring feels straight out of a dream, especially when Jacaranda season hits. For the best travel shots, plan your trip from mid October to November – that’s when the city’s streets are dusted in lilac as these iconic purple trees bloom in full force.

If you’re gunning to get shots for the ‘Gram, McDougall Street in Kirribilli is the spot to hit. It’s famous on Instagram for a reason – around 30 trees here form a lavender tunnel often seen in backdrops of photos. In fact, the street has become so popz that the North Sydney Council has implemented restrictions to ensure pedestrians’ safety as they photograph the lavender wonderland.

Sydney Harbour.
Image credit: Destination NSW

For a scenic city stroll instead, start at the Royal Botanic Garden and make your way through Circular Quay to The Rocks. Here’s where you’ll get to see the jacarandas with views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour. 3 icons in one shot? Chef’s kiss.

Image credit: @eumireads via Instagram

Pair your bloom-viewing with some retail therapy at Paddington’s The Intersection, where designer boutiques like St. Agni Studio sit under a canopy of petals. You’ll also find cosy cafes like Ampersand Café & Bookstore, a hybrid space with shelves full of books and brunch plates like Turkish Inspired Labneh Eggs (AUD30, ~S$24.90). Or, keep it simple with a cup of coffee (from AUD5, S$4.15) while enjoying the view.

2. Spot whales from the cliffs or a harbour cruise

Image credit: Whale Watching Sydney

Spring marks the tail end of whale-watching season in New South Wales. So, if you’ve never seen a humpback whale breach in the wild, this is your sign. Between May and November, over 40,000 humpbacks make their way along the coast as part of their annual migration, known as the “Humpback Highway”. They’re often joined by southern right whales, minkes, and even the occasional orca or blue whale.

You don’t have to go far from Sydney to catch a glimpse. Head to North or South Head near Sydney Harbour, or walk part of the Bondi to Manly trail where sandstone cliffs double as natural viewing platforms.

For a closer look, hop on a whale-watching cruise. Boats depart daily from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, and Manly, so you’re likely to see a pod within minutes. Whale Watching Sydney’s 2-hour Express Cruise on Ocean Dreaming II (AUD85, ~S$70.55) offers 3 viewing decks and expert guides, so you’ll be spotting tail slaps and breaches in no time.

Find out more about Whale Watching Sydney.

3. Catch Sculpture by the Sea at Bondi

Image credit: Destination NSW

Australia is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, and art here isn’t confined to just white-walled galleries. If you’re in Sydney between 17th October and 3rd November this year, carve out time for Sculpture by the Sea, the world’s largest free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition.

Since 1997, this annual art trail has turned the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk into a 2km open-air gallery, with over 100 large-scale sculptures popping up along the clifftops. It’s like a giant treasure hunt for art lovers, set against sweeping ocean views and crashing waves. Expect dramatic, whimsical, and thought-provoking works by both Aussie and international artists. It’s also a great idea for a golden hour stroll.

Find out more about Sculpture by the Sea at Bondi.

– Central Coast –

4. Central Coast Oyster Farm Tour

Image credit: Destination NSW 

Just 45 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Sydney Oyster Farm Tours takes farm-to-table to the next level, by literally putting the table in the river. This family-run oyster farm has been in business for 17 years, and their guided boat tours on the Hawkesbury River offer a behind-the-scenes look at how Sydney Rock and Pacific oysters are cultivated.

Here’s an activity you should do for the plot: an in-water tasting experience where you’ll don waterproof overalls and sit at a private white-tablecloth setup right in the river. You’ll learn to open oysters yourself. Then, slurp up freshly shucked oysters, pair them with prawns and wine, and enjoy views you definitely won’t get at your usual seafood spot.

Image credit: Destination NSW 

The experience costs AUD209/adult (~S$173.47), AUD75/child (~S$62.25), and AUD110 (~S$91.71) for teenagers aged 13-17. But if you just want a standard tour, there’s also the Oyster Farm Tour at AUD95/adult (~S$78.85) and AUD48/child (~S$40.02), which includes a boat ride, oyster farm tour, and 12 oysters to enjoy per pax. Psst, you will also learn to open oysters on the boat.

Find out more about Sydney Oyster Farm Tours.

– Blue Mountains –

The Blue Mountains, just 90 minutes from Sydney by car or a 2-hour scenic train ride away, makes for an easy day or overnight trip. You can catch the Blue Mountains Line from Central Station or several major stops like Parramatta and Penrith, with trains running regularly to mountain villages like Katoomba. Here are 2 things you shouldn’t miss while you’re here:

5. Go bushwalking among wildflowers

Three Sisters.
Image credit: Destination NSW

First of all, the Blue Mountains region is gorgeous. Spring’s cool air and blooming landscapes make it even more perfect to hit the trails here. For a short and scenic option, try the Three Sisters Walk from Echo Point in Katoomba. This gentle 450m trail winds through eucalyptus forest to a lookout facing the famous sandstone rock formation, with optional steps leading to Honeymoon Bridge for a closer view. Keep an eye out for native birds like crimson rosellas along the way.

Echo Point Lookout.
Image credit: Destination NSW

If you want to get your steps in, the Prince Henry Cliff Walk is a must. This 7km trail runs from Echo Point to Gordon Falls in Leura, hugging the cliff edge with more than 20 lookouts and 3 waterfalls along the way. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike with sweeping views of the Jamison Valley, hanging swamps, and blooming wildflowers. You’ll be done with the hike before you know it.

6. Stay overnight for stargazing

Image credit: Destination NSW

As chio as the Blue Mountains are during the day, the real show begins when the sun sets. The region is known for having some of the clearest skies in New South Wales, making it perfect for stargazing. The best way to experience it is on a 90-minute skygazing tour led by astrophysicist Dr Dimitri Douchin.

Image credit: Destination NSW 

You’ll start with laser-guided naked-eye astronomy, learning how to identify stars and constellations with tips and storytelling from your guide. Then, you’ll take a peek through a professional telescope to spot Saturn’s rings, the Orion Nebula, or even the craters on the moon. Don’t worry if the stars don’t align and skies are cloudy during your visit – the experience moves to a cosy pop-up planetarium inside an inflatable dome.

Tickets start at AUD85/adult (~S$70.55) and AUD55/child (S$45.65), with family packages available from AUD230 (~S$190.90) for 2 adults and 2 children.

Find out more about Blue Mountains Skygazing.

– Hunter Valley –

Another popular destination close to Sydney is the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s oldest and most iconic wine regions. You can drive there in about 2-2.5 hours via the M1 Motorway or take the scenic route through Ku-ring-gai National Park.

But if you’re planning on drinking, skip the drive and hop on the NSW Trainlink, which runs from Sydney Central to Singleton in around 3 hours. From there, local transfers or tours are available to whisk you straight into wine country.

7. Soar over vineyards in a hot air balloon

Image credit: @lilicraneee via Instagram 

For a sunrise you won’t forget, book a hot air balloon ride over the rolling vineyards of Hunter Valley. Balloon Aloft offers daily flights that take off at dawn, giving you panoramic views of the countryside as it’s bathed in golden light. It’s worth arriving the night before – trust us, waking up early is a lot easier when a bucket-list experience is waiting.

Image credit: @caitlinroseattard via Instagram

After you land, you’ll head to Peterson House Winery for a gourmet breakfast and a glass of bubbly, the perfect post-flight pairing. It’s a memorable way to start the day, whether you’re treating your partner or just ticking off a dream experience. Bonus: you’ll also get a digital photo album to relive the moment.

Prices start from AUD349/adult ~S$291.08) and AUD285/child (~S$237.67).

Find out more about Balloon Aloft.

8. Explore cellar doors & local spirits

Picnic at Audrey Wilkinson.
Image credit: Destination NSW

You can’t come to Hunter Valley and not visit a winery. The region is home to over 120 of them, with more cellar doors than anywhere else in Australia. Spring is the sweet spot for wine tasting: the skies are clear, the temperatures are breezy, and it’s just before the summer crowds roll in, so you’ll get a more relaxed, personalised experience.

A must-visit is Audrey Wilkinson, perched on the foothills of the Brokenback Range. Expect panoramic views, historic charm, and the option to picnic among the vines with a picnic hamper and bottle of wine from AUD95 (~S$79.20). If you want to bring a bottle or two home, you can also buy a bottle of their 2024 Rosé or 2023 Chardonnay, both AUD28 (~S$23.24).

While you’re there, consider making it a stay. They’ve also got cosy guest cottages tucked right into the vineyard.

Find out more about Audrey Wilkinson.

Image credit: Hunter Distillery

For something a little stronger, swing by Hunter Distillery, the region’s only certified organic distillery. Here’s the chance to show off your knowledge about spirits while sampling small-batch gin, vodka, schnapps, and liqueurs, all made on-site.

Find out more about Hunter Distillery.

Time to book that spring escape to Sydney & New South Wales

With this list of things to do in Sydney and New South Wales, you’re more than set for a memorable spring trip Down Under. All that’s left is to book your flight. Singapore Airlines offers 4 direct flights daily from Singapore to Sydney, starting from S$758 for a round-trip ticket.

Pro tip: consider taking the red-eye flight so you’ll land in Sydney just in time for breakfast and a full day of exploring. Plus, unlimited complimentary Wi‑Fi is available for Singapore Airlines’ PPS Club members, supplementary cardholders, and KrisFlyer members across all cabin classes – so you can post your “this is the only aisle I’m walking down” photos at 30,000 feet.

Book your trip to Sydney with Singapore Airlines

This post was brought to you by Singapore Airlines & Destination New South Wales.
Cover image adapted from: Destination NSW, Whale Watching Sydney