| 4 mins read
The capital of New South Wales, Sydney has grown to become one of the world’s favorite, and most livable destinations. Australia’s oldest and largest metropolis, this “Harbour City” is famous for its diversity of cultures, activities and sites, as well as its natural beauty and enviable climate. No matter when you plan on visiting, expect sunny days (over 300 in a year), super friendly locals and an itinerary swelling with excitement. And while there’s lots of ground to cover during your stay, we highly recommend these 5 amazing experiences.
5. Sydney’s History and Culture: The Museum Scene
Sydney’s wide range of museums are the best place to get acquainted with the city (and country’s) extensive history and culture. Get a glimpse into Australia’s natural and anthropological history at the country’s oldest museum, aptly titled the Australia Museum. For a more local history lesson, the Museum of Sydney walks visitors through the colonial and contemporary roots of the city. Other excellent museums making for an excellent and informative visit are the Australian National Maritime Museum, Powerhouse Museum and the Hyde Park Barracks Museum (for a look into Sydney’s Penal Colony past).
4. Sydney’s Main Harbors
One of the most unforgettable ways to explore Sydney is on its waters. A boat ride around Port Jackson (part of Sydney Harbor) is one of the absolute must-dos for all visitors. One of the largest natural harbors in the world, a cruise along Sydney Harbor gives visitors a glimpse of the central business district, iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Continuing on with the harbor excitement, make your way to Sydney’s Darling Harbor. Encompassing both the actual harbor itself as well as the surrounding mainland district, Darling Harbor is home to some beautiful city views from the water, as well as shopping, cinemas, markets, gardens, museums and much more.
3. Sydney From Above
While the city’s harbors do provide some great views, the best views of Sydney are found at the top of the Sydney Tower. The tallest building in the city, this 309-meter high structure takes visitors 260 meters up for complete panoramic shots of the city below. Enjoy a meal at Tower Dining, have a drink at the 360 Bar or just soak in the views from the Skywalk.
2. Sydney’s Wildlife
Whether you’re interested in marine life, birds, mammals or amphibians, the Manly Sea Life Sanctuary (public aquarium), Taronga Zoo, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and Wild Life Sydney (an in-city wildlife park) are all sanctuaries and animal exhibits found conveniently inside city limits!
1. Sydney’s Beaches
Sydney’s beaches are easily amongst its most popular attractions amongst locals and tourists alike. Located 4 miles east from the central business district, Bondi Beach is perhaps the most famous beach of all. If you’re looking to surf, swim, tan, meet up with friends or perhaps make a few new ones - this is Sydney’s best spot to do so. Other top Sydney beaches are Manly Beach, Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach.
Visitors Beware: Sydney’s Beaches are famed for having strong riptides - so if you’re going for a swim, mind the signs, flags and don’t get in over your head (no pun intended).
When to Go? Sydney’s peak tourist season is December to February when the weather is at its best. If you don’t want to bump into too many crowds, September-November and February-April are great times to visit when the weather is still good and the crowds thin out.
With an abundance of sites and attractions both in and around Sydney, from the Blue Mountains to the Rocks and the famous city parks, your New South Wales holiday doesn’t have to end with these 5 must-dos. The best way to plan your sightseeing around all the hotspots and activities in the city would be to tap on the insider knowledge and insights of your Sydney tour guide… after all there’s no experience quite like the local experience!
Image Details and Licenses: https://flic.kr/p/d7hFv3 (Luke Zeme, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/osSHwQ (njcull, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/f9rAwA (Mal Booth, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/dv2RL5 (Hai Linh Truong, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/3DVADU (Jon Bragg, CC BY-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/oMS7Y4 (YY, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/cNYoyA (Deborah & Kevin, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/cUTBEu (Natalie Tapson, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), https://flic.kr/p/jdJK87 (Michael Yuen, CC BY-NC 2.0)