Where The Heart Never Leaves
Picture a glistening harbour beneath a sky of dazzling fireworks, gorgeous beaches with water so blue you can’t find the line between ocean and sky, mystical rock formations that tower over the forest below, unique wildlife, and food that’s so fresh you’ll wonder if it’s straight from the farm (it probably is). This, my friends, is the wonderful world of Sydney and its surrounds.
One visit will not be enough – your heart will be pining to return even before you head back home. We’ve come up with 50 reasons that are guaranteed to have you returning again and again. This is a vacation like no other to Down Under.
– Sydney City –
1. View the Sydney cityscape from the iconic ferry
Photo courtesy of Destination NSW
What better way is there to drink in the views of the Harbour City than by sailing across its grand harbour? Hop on one of the iconic harbour ferries to enjoy the breeze in your hair as you set sail from the hustle and bustle of Circular Quay, past the beautiful Sydney Opera House and the magnificent Harbour Bridge.
Sydney’s warm Mediterranean climate is perfect for catching a ferry to one of its many beautiful bays and beaches. More information on Sydney ferries can be found here.
Circular Quay Ferry Wharf
Address: Alfred Street, Sydney NSW 2000
2. Admire Sydney’s breathtaking coast
Photo courtesy of Destination NSW
The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is an ocean lover’s dream. Rolling waves, tranquil bays, beachside parks, jaw-dropping cliffs. This medium-grade coastal walk has it all. Be prepared for lots of walking (it’s a 6km-track) or stop at one of the many cafes along the way.
There are also plenty of spots to snap some really impressive photos. Keep your eyes peeled for a spot where you’ll feel like Ariel the mermaid perched on a rock, hair flying in the wind and thunderous waves rolling in from the ocean.
Find out more about the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk here.
3. Swim in an infinity pool overlooking the sea
This is an infinity pool like no other. Swimming in the famed Bondi Baths is as pleasurable as an invigorating swim in the ocean, but with all the safety of a huge lap pool. Don’t forget that grand ocean view.
Bondi Icebergs Club
Address: 1 Notts Ave, Bondi NSW 2026
Opening Hours: 6am to 6.30pm
Price: AUD6.50 (SGD6.50) for Adults, AUD4.50 (SGD4.50) for Children
4. Embark on a gastronomical adventure
When a city boasts cafes and restaurants that use the freshest ingredients and produce, you can be sure to find some amazing gastronomic creations. From farmers’ markets to quaint cafes and a multitude of unique restaurants, the food in Sydney is truly inspiring.
Look out for our article of best places to eat when in Sydney coming up soon!
5. Watch fireworks while soaking in the atmosphere of Darling Harbour
Sydney is known as the Harbour City for good reason – its waterways are at the heart of its social life and many vibrant celebrations. At Darling Harbour, more than 24 bars and restaurants plus world-class entertainment venues have charming waterfront views lit up by spectacular fireworks on most weekends. It’s perfect for a romantic date or gathering with friends.
Darling Harbour
Address: Harbourside, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
Website: here
6. Gorgeous sunset drinks at the Shangri-La
Searching for that perfect view of sunset as you sip on a refreshing cocktail? The swank bar at the very top of Shangri-La Hotel won’t disappoint. Take in the panoramic views of Sydney basking in the golden glow of the setting sun as you enjoy one of the bar’s unique blends. I highly recommend the Coco-Jello Loco, a refreshing mix of watermelon, coconut, lemon and vodka.
Blu Bar on 36
Address: 36, Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 5pm to 12am
Website: here
7. Plunge into the sparkling waters of Manly
In most places, you often have to take a boat ride out to snorkel among coral gardens but not in Manly. Dive straight into the crystal waters of Manly Beach, enjoy a leisurely swim and see an array of hard and soft corals home to many different fish.
There are plenty of things to do in Manly. Chill out over a coffee in one of the cute little cafes, take advantage of the sea breeze and fly a kite or snack on some delicious fish and chips by the beach.
Manly Beach
Address: Manly NSW 2095
Opening Hours: 8am to 4pm
8. Learn about the prehistoric era in Australia’s oldest museum
This grand establishment opened its doors in 1827, making it the oldest museum in Australia. For all you budding historians, geologists, anthropologists and paleontologists, a visit to the Australian Museum is a must. It specialises in the fields of natural history and anthropology, so you can expect impressive displays of fossils, minerals, and even human skeletons.
Australian Museum
Address: 6 College Street, Sydney NSW 2010
Opening Hours: 9.30am to 5pm
Website: here
9. Play with sea creatures at Sydney Sea Life Aquarium
Pig the playful Dugong
For girls, all your mermaid fantasies will come to life at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. Here you’ll see thousands of colourful fish, amazing sharks, playful dugongs, and sea creatures that you never knew existed. The aquarium is huge and interactive; there’s even a miniature sand bar where you can touch the pretty starfish!
Sydney Sea Life Aquarium
Address: 1-5 Wheat Road, Sydney NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 9.30am to 7pm
Website: here
10. Meet your idol at Madame Tussauds
Having tea with Audrey Hepburn
Oh look! Nicole Kidman’s here too!
They may be wax models but you won’t believe how life-like they look! Find your favourite pop stars, politicians, athletes and Marvel characters here at Madame Tussauds. If you’ve ever dreamt of sipping tea with Audrey Hepburn, shaking hands with Gandhi or standing next to Her Majesty the Queen, don’t miss a trip to Madame Tussauds Sydney.
Madame Tussauds Sydney
Address: Madame Tussauds Sydney, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 9.30am to 8pm
For information on ticketing prices, click here.
11. Visit the famed Taronga Zoo
Photo courtesy of Destination NSW
Taronga Zoo has a rich history that dates back nearly a hundred years. This city zoo is home to animals hailing from Australia, Asia, Africa and beyond, so you’ll see an amazing diversity of wildlife here set against the backdrop of Sydney’s gorgeous harbour. It’s no wonder ‘Taronga’ is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘beautiful view’.
Taronga Zoo
Address: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, Sydney NSW 2000
Opening Hours: May to Aug 9.30am to 4pm | Sep to Apr 9.30am to 5pm
Price: AUD46 (SGD46) for Adults, AUD26 (SGD26) for Children
Website: here
12. Admire the splendour of the Queen Victoria Building
Named after Queen Victoria in commemoration of her Diamond Jubilee in 1897, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is one of the most beautiful shopping arcades I’ve ever stepped foot in. With its stained glass domes, intricate patterns of the iron railings, grand clocks featuring vintage figures and dioramas, rickety elevators that look like they came straight out of the 1800s, it’s an architectural dream.
Amongst all these vintage features are cool brands including Topshop and Pandora.
The Queen Victoria Building
Address: 455 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
13. Feel like royalty at The Tea Room
It’s a tea-time snack fit for the Queen herself. Located in the former Grand Ballroom, The Tea Room boasts a menu that’s almost as grand as the room’s interior. Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea which features aromatic tea blends, three tiers of delicious bites, and scones to die for. And it doesn’t hurt that you’re dining under glistening Baccarat crystal chandeliers as well.
The Tea Room QVB
Address: 3, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm
Website: here
14. Spend a charming morning at the Grounds of Alexandria
Sydney never seems to run out of beautiful places to eat. The Grounds of Alexandria is a charming mash-up of a coffee roaster, cafe, bar, eatery, kitchen garden and mini barn. You’ll have a wonderful time exploring this rustic compound, tasting their fresh organic produce and enjoying a healthy brunch beneath a whimsical garden arch.
The Grounds of Alexandria
Address: 7A, 2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 7am to 4pm | Sat to Sun 7.30am to 4pm
15. Explore the graffitied streets of Newtown
Newtown has a surprise waiting in each and every corner; back street walls are covered with graffiti that’ll make you wish Singapore would lift its ban. Spend a quiet afternoon strolling along its colourful streets, pick up some hippie trinkets along the way, and stop for a delicious cronut at Brewtown Newtown cafe.
Brewtown Newtown
Address: 6-8 O’Connell St, Newtown NSW 2042
Opening Hours: 8am to 4pm
16. Shop at Sydney’s version of Mustafa Centre
If you’re searching for Sydney’s best bargains, Market City won’t disappoint. It’s almost like stepping into a little Asian town, which makes sense as we tend to congregate wherever the cheap and good stuff is anyway. You’ll find stylish clothing, seafood, assorted nuts and fresh produce at unbelievably low prices that rivals the markets in Asia.
Market City
Address: 9-13 Hay Street, Haymarket NSW 2000
Opening Hours: 10am to 7pm
17. Buy the freshest organic produce
The Eveleigh Farmers’ Market feels more like a cosy community of farmers and food lovers than a market place. Every Saturday, the heritage-listed Blacksmiths Workshop is transformed into a bustling market boasting some of Sydney’s best organic produce, artisan breads and boutique wines. You won’t regret dragging yourself out of bed on a Saturday morning for this!
Eveleigh Farmers’ Market
Address: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015
Opening Hours: Saturday 8am to 1pm
Website: here
18. Browse through vintage trinkets at Paddington Markets
The old soul in you will come to life at Paddington Markets where you can spend hours browsing through stacks of second-hand vinyl, glitzy costume jewellery, bohemian scarves and much more. A food area with live music helps to keep everyone feeling relaxed after hours of shopping.
Some items may require you to stretch your dollar but, if you dig hard enough, you’ll find some very affordable treasures.
Paddington Markets
Address: 395 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021
Opening Hours: Saturday 10am to 4pm
19. Visit one or more of the many events happening in Sydney
Photo courtesy of Destination NSW
Sydney is the events capital of Australia, featuring many world famous events. The most prominent would be Vivid Sydney, an annual festival of light, music & ideas at the start of winter that promises large scale projections and exciting interactive art pieces. You cannot miss Sydney Royal Easter Show – showcasing the finest local produce and farmyard animals, carnivals, daredevil stunts and other activities that the entire family will enjoy!
20. Catch a flick at a cinema under the stars
Kick back, relax, have a drink, and watch a classic flick as city lights flash before you and stars glisten above. Sydney’s outdoor cinema season takes place during the summer months from December to February. If you’re ever in Sydney during this warm and wonderful time, make sure you catch a movie at outdoors.
For a list of Sydney’s best outdoor cinemas, click here.
21. Get spooked by a ghost tour at the Rocks
Sitting humbly beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge are the quaint townhouses of The Rocks. Don’t be fooled by their pretty exterior, though. When dawn turns to dusk, spirits and ghosts come out to play with many weird sightings and phenomena have been reported.
If your curiosity has been piqued and you manage to muster enough courage, join The Rocks Ghost Tours on one of their adult nightly tours for a haunting experience.
The Rocks Ghost Tours
Address: 110 George Street, The Rocks NSW 2000
Website: here
22. Catch a musical at the Capitol Theatre
Catch the latest play or musical to hit Sydney at the ethereal Capitol Theatre. As the Sydney Morning Herald aptly put it in 1928, ‘One seemed to have stepped from under the dull skies of everyday life and passed into an enchanted region where the depth of the blue heavens had something magical about it’.
Here, you’ll be able to watch the likes of Les Misérables, Cats, The Sound of Music, West Side Story, Wicked and so much more. Culture buffs among you are going to love it!
Address: 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket NSW 2000
Website: here
23. Stay in the most exquisite boutique hotels
Photos courtesy of QT Sydney
Sydney is home to some really unique and atmospheric boutique hotels, with QT Sydney standing out as one of the quirkiest. From the moment I stepped inside, I was gobsmacked by the funky interior which blended gothic, art deco and Italianate styles to create the effect of an artistic palazzo.
The staff are a really charismatic bunch who seem to possess the same sultry confidence; some were decked in bright wigs and gothic costumes, fitting the hotel’s eclectic theme to perfection. Even the elevators seemed to come straight out of a 1920s Hollywood movie. If you’re searching for a hotel that’s one of a kind, QT Sydney will surpass all your expectations.
Another hotel with an artistic concept is 1888 Hotel, which has high ceilings, timber pillars and exposed brick walls adorned with Australian artworks.
QT Sydney
Address: 49 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000
Website: here
1888 Hotel
Address: 139 Murray Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Website: here
– Central Coast –
24. Admire the coastline of Shelly Beach
Take a short road trip to the Central Coast and you’ll find some stunning beaches. Shelly Beach boasts a super majestic coastline that seems to stretch forever. During the summer when the waters are calmer, the locals gather here for a healthy dose of sun, sand and sea.
Shelly Beach
Address: Shelly Beach NSW 2261
Website: here
25. Experience a one-of-a-kind thrill at the Treetops Crazy Rider
Thrill seekers can’t miss a ride on the world’s longest rollercoaster zip line. The TreeTop Crazy Rider boasts a kilometre’s worth of heart-stopping drops and giddying twists and turns amidst the forest canopy. There are plenty of high rope obstacle courses available to suit all ages and interests too.
TreeTop Adventure Park
Address: Blue Gum Hills Regional Park, Minmi Road, Minmi NSW 2287
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 10am to 4pm | Sat to Sun 9am to 4pm
Website: here
– Port Stephens –
26. Go quad biking through endless sand dunes
Go quad biking by the coast at the spectacular Stockton Sand Dunes. Unlike many other tours, Sand Dunes Adventure conduct their tours on private property so you’ll feel like it’s just you and your trusty quad bike against the world.
The tour will be tailored according to your interests and what you’re comfortable with. Daredevils will have the option of speeding down the steep dunes, but if thrill isn’t your thing, cruising leisurely along the gentle gradients is great fun too. During the tour, your knowledgeable guide will also give you a historical narrative on the Aboriginal history of this precious area.
Sand Dunes Adventure
Address: 2163 Nelson Bay Rd, Williamtown NSW 2318
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun 9am to 4pm
Website: here
27. Watch majestic whales in the wild
There’s nothing more enchanting than watching humpback whales break through the ocean surface in all their graceful splendour, as if putting on their best show for their wide-eyed spectators. No visit to any marine life park can rival the experience of watching these beautiful mammals dancing in their natural habitat.
Port Stephens Dolphin Watch
Address: 40 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
For a list of dolphin/whale watching operators in Port Stephens, click here.
28. Parasail over the South China Sea
Oh, to soar like a bird over the deep blue sea! All your poetic dreams of flying over the ocean will come true with Port Stephens Water Sports. It’s nowhere near as scary as it looks, though. It feels more like a relaxing airborne ride with a jaw-dropping view. Even if you aren’t an adrenaline junkie, chances are you’ll enjoy parasailing.
Port Stephens Water Sports
Address: d’Albora Marinas Nelson Bay, Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay NSW 2315
Website: here
– Newcastle –
29. Stroll along the stunning Anzac Memorial Walk
The names of men and women of service engraved on steel silhouettes along the coastal walk.
We were blown away by the sweeping views as we strolled down the steel walkway of the Anzac Memorial Walk. The charming coastal city warmly embracing the magnificent swirls of the Tasman Sea, the azure sky painted with wispy clouds – it made for a picture-perfect postcard to send home to mom.
It’s not all about the views, though. The historical significance of the walk warrants deep thought and reflection. Built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli in WWI and the commencement of steelmaking in Newcastle, the walk is as gorgeous as it is educational.
Anzac Memorial Walk
Address: Strzelecki Lookout, 43 High St, The Hill NSW 2300
Website: here
30. Munch on pretty cupcakes at Hello Naomi
With its charming pastel colours and dainty tea-time snacks, Hello Naomi felt more like having a mini tea party in Wonderland. The best part is that, unlike many other cake shops, the tea-time sweets here actually taste as good as they look.
The icing on their iconic cupcakes was light and not overwhelmingly sweet while the cake itself struck such a perfect balance between spongy and moist that I devoured it in under a minute.
Hello Naomi
Address: 175 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300
Opening Hours: 9am to 4.30pm
Website: here
31. Pet a koala at Blackbutt Reserve
Petting Baby Indy
Blackbutt Reserve may not be the biggest and most popular wildlife reserve in New South Wales, but that’s what makes it so charming and homely. You’ll find a wildlife sanctuary spanning 182 hectares, home to koalas, wombats, wallabies, emus and even exotic peacocks. You’ll also be able to spend some time with the region’s cutest baby koala, Indy.
Blackbutt Reserve
Address: Carley Avenue, Kotara NSW 2289
Opening Hours: 7am to 7pm, but wildlife exhibits open from 10am to 5pm
Website: here
Entry is free, but the public koala encounter is priced at AUD6/person (SGD6/person)
32. Watch surfers do their thing at Merewether Beach
A sole surfer
Take your mark at the Merewether Ocean Baths
Among NSW’s abundance of lovely beaches, Merewether stands out with its awesome surf culture, huge Ocean Baths, historic rock pools, and the legendary Merewether Surf House where you can dine with a view. And boy, what a view!
Merewether Beach is home to four times World Surfing Champion, Mark Richards, and Malibu Surfboard Riding Champion, Martin McMillan. The locals take their surfing so seriously it’s been declared as the Merewether Beaches National Surfing Reserve.
Merewether Beach
Address: John Parade, Merewether NSW 2291
33. Step back in time at this uniquely themed bar
Having a drink in this 1920s themed bar will send you straight back into that flashy era. Curl up on one of the luxurious suede couches by the fireplace as you sip an intoxicating cocktail mix or snack on the Red Baron’s scrumptious eastern European tapas-style dishes.
Red Baron’s Berlin Bar
Address: 31 King St, Newcastle NSW 2300
Opening Hours: Wed, Thu, Sun 5pm to 10pm | Fri to Sat 5pm to 12am
Website: here
34. Catch a beautiful sunset over cocktails at Honeysuckle Hotel
Honeysuckle Hotel is best known for its waterfront bar, where you can enjoy a relaxing drink as you watch a romantic sunset. Sports enthusiasts can also rejoice as Honeysuckle boasts Newcastle’s largest TV screens which means you can enjoy the game accompanied by hearty pub grub!
Honeysuckle Hotel
Address: Lee Wharf C Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle NSW 2300
Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 10am to 11pm | Fri to Sat 10am to 12am | Sun 10am to 10pm
35. Go bargain hunting in quirky vintage stores
A music lover’s paradise
The streets of Newtown are lined with quirky stores that will delight the hipster in you. From rusty old paraphernalia to vintage paintings and impressive vinyl collections, Newtown proves to be the ultimate hippie haven. If old trinkets aren’t for you, Newtown isn’t short of chic and modern clothing stores either.
– Hunter Valley –
36. Stand in awe of Hunter Valley’s most beautiful vineyard
If all the vineyards of Hunter Valley were in a beauty competition, Audrey Wilkinson would win hands down. It also takes home the crown for being one of the oldest vineyards in Australia, with a history dating all the way back to 1866. And if wine is not your favourite drink, the splendid view alone makes a trip to the Hunter worth it.
Audrey Wilkinson
Address: 750 De Beyers Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm
Website: here
37. Appreciate the best of Australian wine
An introduction to Audrey Wilkinson’s pleasant wines
Tempus Two’s classy cellar door
An exquisite taste of Bimbadgen
Whether you’re a fine wine expert or you haven’t a clue about what’s good and what’s not, wine tasting in the Hunter will be a memorable and enriching experience. Go behind the scenes and learn about the painstaking process behind making quality wines. Then pamper your tastebuds with the fruity flavours of the Hunter’s best Semillon and the richness of its Shiraz.
You’ll find some of the most exquisite wines at Tempus Two while you’ll be able to taste wine straight from the oak barrel at Bimbadgen.
Tempus Two
Address: Corner of Broke & McDonalds Roads, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm
Website: here
Bimbadgen Estate Winery
Address: 790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Opening Hours: Sun to Thu 10am to 5pm | Fri to Sat 10am to 7pm
Website: here
38. Indulge your sweet tooth at Hunter Valley Choc Company
After enjoying some amazing wine, pop into the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company to sink your teeth into the rich chocolatey goodness of the region’s best fudge and chocolates. Australian dried fruit and nuts are generously coated with the finest Belgium chocolate, producing the most delightfully sinful creations.
The Hunter Valley Chocolate Company
Address: 820 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2325
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Website: here
39. Have a taste of the region’s creamiest cheese
Another taste that goes well with wine is cheese. The Smelly Cheese Shop is conveniently located next to Tempus Two Cellar Door, so you can pop by for a taste of rich creamy cheese after wine tasting. Our personal favourite is the Triple Cream Brie which we definitely recommend you try!
Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop
Address: 3/188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm
Website: here
40. Go grape stomping
This photo says it all – grape stomping is one of the most fun experiences you’ll ever have. The feeling of mushed up grapes between your toes is so satisfying that you won’t want to step out of the oak barrel. Of course, the final product will be fed to the birds so don’t forget to stock up on the real thing.
Hunter Valley Resort
Address: Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Website: here
Email: sales@HunterResort.com.au
41. Make your own candy
Chef’s deconstructed rocky road creation
The Hunter Valley Resort boasts many other fun and enriching experiences. Sign up for a candy making class where you’ll learn how to make your own rocky road creation from scratch. Chef Nathan is a passionate and cheerful mentor who’ll guide you every step of the way. Even culinary noobs like me can have an enjoyable experience!
Hunter Valley Resort
Address: Corner Hermitage Road & Mistletoe Lane, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Website: here
Email: sales@HunterResort.com.au
42. Wander around the 10 themed gardens of Hunter Valley
Enter the storybook world of Hunter Valley Gardens where flowers bloom year-round, hundreds of fairy lights are entwined in the trees and some of your favourite childhood characters come to life in unexpected spots.
Australia’s largest display garden has more than 10 themed gardens to admire. During Christmas time, you’ll feast your eyes on the region’s most festive and magical Christmas display.
Hunter Valley Gardens
Address: 2090 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Website: here
Price: AUD27 (SGD27) for Adult (16+ years), AUD16 (SGD16) for Child (4-12 years)
43. Stay in a cozy vineyard estate
Warming up by the fireplace in the middle of an Australian winter
Spicers Vineyards Estate is the epitome of a home away from home, cosy and warm just like a mother’s hug. And it doesn’t hurt that the estate is surrounded by picturesque vineyards.
Sign up for a wine tour, pamper yourself at the indulgent Spa Anis, dine with a view at Restaurant Botanica or just stay in the lovely rooms and enjoy a soothing soak in the very inviting spa bath.
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Address: 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Website: here
– Blue Mountains –
44. Visit charming Leura Town
The Blue Mountains is home to majestic natural attractions as well as charming little villages such as Leura whose main street is lined with colonial-style shops, and timber cottages. Grab some freshly-baked bread and treats from an old-school bakery or sweet shops before strolling past gardens, bush walking or enjoying a nice little picnic at Leura Falls Picnic Area.
Leura Town
Address: Leura NSW 2780
45. Marvel at the treasured teapot collection at Bygone Beautys
When in Leura, stop at Bygone Beauty’s for a tour of their huge private teapot collection and then indulge in their iconic silver service Traditional High Tea or aromatic Devonshire tea and scones.
Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms
Address: 20-22 Grose St, Leura NSW 2780
Opening Hours: 10am to 5.30pm
Website: here
46. Watch an aboriginal performance at the Waradah Aboriginal Centre
Get a true taste of Aboriginal culture at Waradah Aboriginal Centre. Watch a lively indigenous dance performance, hear the low hollow melodies of the didgeridoo, browse through authentic artworks and, most importantly, learn about Australia’s original inhabitants.
Waradah Aboriginal Centre
Address: 33-37 Echo Point Road, Katoomba NSW 2780
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Website: here
47. Take a hike at Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park boasts a wide range of hiking trails that are smack-bang in the center of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains Area. The adrenaline- pumping Cliff Top Walking Track adds a thrill to your walk as it runs along the very edge of the cliffs from Glovetts Leap to Evans Lookout. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the awe-inspiring Grose Valley.
If a leisurely stroll along a wide boardwalk is more your style, there’s a plethora of easy-grade walking tracks that showcase the best that nature has to offer.
Blue Mountains National Park
Address: Blue Mountains National Park, NSW 2783
Website: here
48. Spot the Three Sisters from a skyway
The Three Sisters is essentially an unusual rock formation representing three sisters who according to Aboriginal legend were turned to stone.
Today, you can view the splendour of these towering rock formations from on high, 270m above the ancient ravines. The Skyway is a 720m journey offering panoramic views of this scenic region; you can even opt for a see-through cabin floor to capture the view below.
Scenic World
Address: Corner Violet Street & Cliff Drive, Katoomba NSW 2780
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
Website: here
– Grand Pacific Drive –
49. Go on a coastal road trip with spectacular views
An hour’s drive south of Sydney lies one of the most spectacular drives in Australia, the Grand Pacific Drive. Just imagine yourself in a swank car with your fun-loving friends, cruising along the coast with the blue ocean on one side and grand cliffs on the other, stopping for a dip in sparkling rock pools and at hidden beaches. It’s the road trip of a lifetime!
Grand Pacific Drive
Address: 93 Crown St., Wollongong NSW 2500
Website: here
50. Witness a rare geological phenomenon
If you’ve never witnessed the thunderous plumes of water that can spurt from a tiny hole in rocks by the ocean, it’s about time you did. The Kiama Blowhole and Little Blowhole are found along the Grand Pacific Drive and promise to wow you with a spectacular show when the seas are moderate and the northerly winds blowing.
Kiama Blowhole
Address: Kiama NSW 2533
Website: here
51. Bonus: Travel on Australia’s national airline from Singapore to NSW
Photo courtesy of Qantas
My trip to Queensland was amazing and it was made so much better by my trips to and fro on Qantas Airways. The seats on the newly refurbished Airbus A330 were spacious, and the cabin crew exuded warm Aussie hospitality.
Photo courtesy of Qantas
If you didn’t know, Qantas is an acronym for “Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services”. What better way there is to complete an experience Down Under than with Aussie accents greeting you the moment your feet leave Singapore soil?
Qantas offers double daily flights from Singapore with connections to over 9 other destinations in NSW, so it’s a convenient and reliable airline with which you can begin your adventures and cross things off your bucket list!
Find out more about Qantas here!
Adventure Is Calling!
Spectacular, isn’t it? I bet your pining heart is unable to resist the call of natural beauty, fresh food, and the great adventure that’s lying in wait! All you have to do is book your flight, pack your bags, and you’re off to explore the bold and wonderful world of Sydney & New South Wales.