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Australia & South Pacific

Sydney Vacations, Tours, Trips & Travel Packages

  • The Sydney Opera house with the harbour bridge at night are life long memories of any Australia vacation.
  • Sunset view of Darling Harbour, New South Wales
  • The world famous Bondi Beach - a most certain inclusion on all Australia tours
  • A view across the harbour at sunset is always a popular inclusion on all Sydney tours.
  • A beautiful Sydney sunrise
  • Walking through Hyde Park
  • Manly Cove
Sydney

Take a trip to Sydney on your Australia Vacation

Sydney is located on the east coast of the country in the state of New South Wales. It is Australia’s biggest and most cosmopolitan city and an essential stop on any traveller’s Australia vacation. Surrounding the city is a wonderland of national parks, forests, mountains, river valleys and historic riverside towns. The first settlers arrived in 1788 came here to create a penal colony, finding the world’s largest natural harbour, and 70 beaches along the coast within a reasonable distance of the city. In more recent times, Sydney also hosted the 2000 Olympic Games.

When is the best time to visit Sydney?

Sydney and the coastal areas have a moderate or temperate climate. Summers are subtropical in nature and you can experience a certain amount of humidity. You can expect temperatures to be around 25 or 26 Celsius / 77 to 79 Fahrenheit. Winter is mild but it can rain, and you will need a light jacket for the evenings when temperatures can often drop to around 8 Celsius / 45 Fahrenheit. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the last time it snowed in Sydney was in 1836! The best time to visit Sydney could be the fall as it is the mildest time of the year with very little humidity. Daytime temperatures average 24 Celsius / 75 Fahrenheit. Spring is also a good time with warm days and little humidity with similar temperatures to the fall. 

Must-see attractions in and around Downtown Sydney

Sydney Harbour

Sydney Harbour is surrounded not only by the downtown core of the city but also by miles of shoreline which includes a number of Sydney’s suburbs. One way to explore the harbour is to enjoy a short cruise or to take one of the many ferries heading to multiple destinations from Circular Quay in the downtown area. 

Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House

Two iconic landmarks dominate Sydney Harbour. There is the Sydney Harbour Bridge known also as “The Coat Hanger” which defines the city skyline and connects the central part of the city with the northern suburbs. It is, in fact, the world’s largest steel arch bridge. One activity involving this landmark is the Bridge Climb (walking to the top of the bridge with a guide) which is a unique way to enjoy panoramic views of Sydney. 

The other landmark is the Sydney Opera House. Opened in 1973, it is not only unique and unforgettable in design but is also a thriving venue for the arts, music, opera and culture generally.

The Domain

Close to downtown Sydney is The Domain, a beautiful green parkland in which you will find the resplendent Government House, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. At the bottom of The Domain, on the waterfront, is Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, an exposed sandstone rock cut into the shape of a bench hand carved by convicts from sandstone in 1810 for Governor Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth.

Sydney Tower

Another landmark is the Sydney Tower, the city’s tallest free-standing structure and the tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. It is twice the height of the Harbour Bridge. The golden turret at the top of the tower contains two levels of restaurants, three plant levels, two telecommunication transmission levels, and an observation deck to view stunning panoramas of the city.

The Rocks District

Also located downtown is The Rocks District. It is Sydney’s most historic precinct with its many sandstone buildings, cobblestone streets and monuments marking moments in history which allow you to gain an appreciation of Sydney's foundation as a convict-built settlement. It was the first part of Sydney to be settled. The Rocks offer some of Sydney's finest dining and entertainment. 

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour, within easy walking distance from the heart of the city, has good shopping and dining facilities and is home to the Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World and the National Maritime Museum. Tourists visiting Darling Harbour can also enjoy a sunset cruise along the harbour, or perhaps visit one of the many museums, parks and playgrounds.

Sydney Neighborhoods

There are a number of Sydney neighbourhoods which are well worth a visit on an Australian vacation. Darlinghurst is a lively district offering a wide range of nightlife, dining opportunities, bars and pubs, plus boutique shopping, bookshops, art galleries and cafes. Paddington is a trendy neighbourhood with rows of attractive Victorian terrace houses. There is excellent shopping in its designer stores and small boutiques. 

Attractions Across the Bridge

Just across the bridge is Taronga Zoo. This city zoo features one of the largest ranges of native and exotic animals in New South Wales with over 2600 animals including Sumatran tigers, Kodiak bears and many other unusual species. Also just over the bridge is Luna Park, Sydney's premier amusement park. Offering fun and games for the entire family, this is in some ways Australia’s Coney Island.

Museums and Galleries

For the culturally inclined, Sydney offers a host of museums and galleries. The best known include the Australian Museum, the oldest museum in Australia, featuring natural science and cultural artifacts, the Museum of Sydney with its history of the city from aboriginal times to the present day, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales with its extensive collection of Australian and International art and the Museum of Contemporary Art which houses works by many new artists.

Sydney’s Beaches, Nature and Wildlife

Bondi Beach

Australia’s most famous beach is Bondi Beach, located just 7 kilometres/4 miles from the centre. Not only is it a beach for swimming and surfing, but it is also a pleasant place to linger with its numerous cafes, seafood restaurants, bars & clubs. 

Manly Beach

Another popular beach location is Manly Beach. Reached by ferry from Circular Quay, this beach sits on a beautiful peninsula surrounded on three sides by the sparkling Pacific Ocean and Sydney Harbour. Again, a good place to swim and surf but one can also enjoy scenic walks along the coastal paths. Plus it is a locale with good shopping and dining opportunities. 

Royal National Park

Not far from Sydney is the Royal National Park, a very large coastal parkland along Australia’s eastern coastline which includes coastal cliffs, rainforests, secluded beaches and open woodlands. Again, it is a good place to swim and surf but also to go bushwalking. There are two main trails within the park; one trail leads hikers to Bungoona Lookout which has stunning views of the Hacking River, and the other trail takes hikers past Uloola Falls.

Blue Mountains

An essential day trip from Sydney, the Blue Mountains is found about 2 hours from the city. They offer remarkable scenery and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These unique formations of dramatic scenery encompass steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and small villages. They include the Three Sisters, awe-inspiring pinnacled peaks with a fascinating Aboriginal Dreamtime story. There are 140 kilometres/75 miles of walking trails as well as a cable railway which is purported to be the steepest anywhere. Should one wish to stay overnight here, many options can be found in and around Katoomba, a small town offering arty boutique shops.

For more information on the Blue Mountains, click here

Hunter Valley Wine Country

Also worth visiting on trips to Australia is the acclaimed wine country of Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine-producing area, 120 kilometres/75 miles north of Sydney. You can sample fine wines while enjoying the locally grown food in the many restaurants here, and enjoy the ambiance of the area. Non-tasting activities include taking a cruise on the Hunter River or Lake Macquarie, or a ride on a steam train at the Richmond Vale Railway Museum.

For more information on Hunter Valley, click here

It's almost impossible to not include at least one of our Sydney tours on an Australia vacation. It is one of the most desirable cities in the world to live in and is typically used as the starting point for any trip to Australia. Book one of our Australia vacations today and start exploring!

"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Australia's Iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Opera House - Australia's Architectural Wonder

Plan Your Perfect Australia Escape

So Much to See in Sydney’s Taronga Zoo

Top 10 Things to Do in Sydney, Australia

Australia Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Australia vacations. 

Learn about the history and culture of Australia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Australia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Australia for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Australia vacations today!

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Australia vacation at one of Goway's South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages or stay at one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Australia.

 

Read More

Sydney, Australia

  • Essence of Australia with Airfare: Sydney, Rock and Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Visit Australia’s must sees on this quintessential vacation. Drop anchor in Sydney’s famous harbour from the comfort of a luxury yacht. Discover the unique landscape, history and culture in Ayers Rock and then finish your vacation snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,849
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef with Airfare

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine luxury accommodations and world-class landmarks on this Aussie vacation. Cruise Sydney Harbour and explore the rugged landscape of the Blue Mountains before connecting to Cairns to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and explore the Daintree Rainforest.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,259
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Australia and New Zealand Combo

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the two most popular cities of Australia and New Zealand on this air-land combo tour. Start in Sydney, where you'll tour the Sydney Opera House, cruise across the famous harbour, and see koalas and kangaroos at Taronga Zoo. Then head on to Auckland where you'll explore the twin harbours, learn about Maori traditions, and enjoy unbeatable views of the landscape.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,859
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Authentic Australia: Sydney to Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Journey through the best of Australia on this unforgettable vacation that takes you from Sydney to Melbourne. Along the way, you’ll see Uluru/Ayers Rock, venture into Kakadu National Park, dive the Great Barrier Reef, and explore the Indigenous Dreamtime in Kuranda.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,542
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Ultimate South East in Style with Airfare: Melbourne, Hobart & Sydney

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: A unique deluxe experience highlighting classic sights with some unique touring that showcases wine, food, and nature. Go at a more leisurely pace, and spend time in Tasmania, possibly Australia's best-kept secret!
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,249
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Sydney, Wildlife and the Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: See many Australian icons on one essential tour. Drop anchor in Sydney’s famous harbour aboard a luxury yacht, get up close and personal with Australian wildlife on Kangaroo Island, snorkel through the Great Barrier Reef, and discover the natural beauty of the Daintree Rainforest.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,333
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Active Sydney and Tasmania

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Get to the heart of Sydney as you surf, bike, and venture to some of Sydney’s most iconic sites. Climb Sydney’s Harbour Bridge at twilight before you head to Tasmania to venture on a 4 day hike on stunning Maria Island. This trips caters to guests who can walk 10-15 km a day carrying light daypacks of 5-8kg
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,235
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Great Aussie Outdoors for Families

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Australia’s south east corner is a fascinating blend of history, scenery and wildlife. Try your luck at panning for gold as you go back in time and visit the gold rush town of Ballarat. Experience the beautiful scenery along the Great Ocean Road. Visit Australian wildlife on Kangaroo Island. End your adventure in vibrant Sydney with a visit to famous Bondi Beach. Explore the best of three states on this unforgettable and highly educational journey.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Pacific Coast Explorer Self Drive: Sydney to Cairns

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Explore Australia’s Pacific Coast on this popular self-drive. Travel through the famous wine region of the Hunter Valley, beautiful coastal towns and the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast. Visit Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island and enjoy a farmstay before arriving in Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,899
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Coastal Drive Self Drive: Sydney to Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Follow along the shimmering east coast of Australia, travelling from Sydney to Melbourne exploring some of the best beaches around, become acquainted with coastal living, remote coastal bushlands and relaxed Aussie lifestyle.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 569
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Reef, Islands & Coast: Sydney to Cairns

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Enjoy Australia’s tropical rainforests, white sandy beaches, island resorts and famous sunshine as you travel by luxury coach from Sydney to Cairns. Visit unique Fraser Island, the longest sand island in the world and spot dingos on the beach. Spend a few nights on Hamilton Island, one of the most popular islands in the Whitsundays. Finish your vacation swimming and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,995
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Australia: Sydney, Uluru, Great Barrier Reef & more

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This ultimate itinerary stands out amongst trips to Australia with some of its most distinctive destinations like Sydney, Ayers Rock, Cape Tribulation, and Lizard Island with equally unique and luxurious accommodation. Sail Sydney's famous harbour on a boutique yacht, experience signature touring in Australia's red centre, visit the Daintree rainforest with a private guide before ending your vacation on luxurious Lizard Island.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 10,342
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Southern Australia Explorer: Sydney, Tasmania, Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Take in Sydney’s sights before venturing to the spectacular Blue Mountains. Be inspired by the breathtaking views and cascading waterfalls of this World Heritage Region. Drive from Hobart to the Cradle Mountains with magnificent alpine scenery, lakes and small fishing villages. Finish in Melbourne and get to know the famous Phillip Island penguins.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,539
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Downunder

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the best of Australia and New Zealand’s culture, people and scenery from the cities of Sydney and Auckland to the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Milford Sound. Experience Maori and Aboriginal cultures in with traditional feasts and dance.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,322
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Classic Sydney, Rock & Reef

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Venture to three of Australia’s most famous spots, cosmopolitan Sydney, the outback and tropical Queensland. Get to know Sydney before catching the sunset over Uluru (Ayers Rock). Then explore Cairns, the rainforest and the incredible Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,688
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Trans Continental Classic

    FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Travel from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean on this 13 day rail journey from Sydney to Perth. Board The Indian Pacific after spending a few days exploring Sydney and travel across the country. Visit Canberra, Australia’s capital city, and explore Adelaide and Kangaroo Island along the way.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,036
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Rail Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Island Tracks

    FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Enjoy riding the Spirit of Queensland Train as you travel from Cairns to Fraser Island stopping at Hamilton Island before heading to Sydney to see the incredible sights. Couple the best of Queensland’s tropical island escapes and brilliant beaches with iconic Sydney.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,158
    Trip Type:
    Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Sydney, Mountains & Vineyards Self Drive

    FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Set out on this lovely self-drive escape to experience the iconic Blue Mountains, the beautiful bay of Port Stephens and the world-renowned vineyards and wineries of Australia’s famous Hunter Valley.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 999
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Waltzing Matilda: Holiday of a Lifetime

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Embark on an unforgettable journey across Australia and New Zealand with the Waltzing Matilda Holiday of a Lifetime. As one of Goway’s premier tours, Waltzing Matilda showcases the icons of two remarkable nations, taking you from the harbour of Auckland to the Outback and Uluru/Ayers Rock to the Great Barrier Reef and includes the cosmopolitan cities of Melbourne and Sydney.
    Duration:
    20 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 10,923
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Multi Country Vacation Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Classic Downunder: Auckland to Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Get to know the true Downunder by experiencing the best of both Australia and New Zealand. Journey through New Zealand and Australia’s most spectacular sights including Rotorua, Milford Sound, Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef, with exciting, cosmopolitan cities to create the perfect Downunder experience.
    Duration:
    19 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,433
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Aussie Kiwi Family Explorer

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: An interactive family adventure exploring New Zealand and Australia . Explore glow worm caves, a visit to Hobbiton, learn about Maori culture in Rotorua, experience the thrill of jet boating and ziplining in Queenstown before rounding out the journey in Sydney.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Family Vacations, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    New Zealand See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Downunder: Auckland, Queenstown, Sydney, Great Barrier Reef

    DELUXE | PRIVATE GUIDED: On this incredible voyage exploring New Zealand and Australia, relax as you fly to breathtaking Milford Sound, sail iconic Sydney Harbour and unwind in the paradise that is Hayman Island, all while overnighting in world-class accommodations.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,763
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Private Experiences, Small Group Touring, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Classic Australia: Sydney, Red Centre, Cairns, Melbourne

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Australia's most diverse cities and natural wonders on this journey that takes you to Sydney’s Opera House and spectacular Ayers Rock. Visit colourful Melbourne, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, and learn about the traditional Aboriginal “Dreamtime."
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,678
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Australia: Sydney, Rock and Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Visit Australia’s must sees on this quintessential vacation. Drop anchor in Sydney’s famous harbour from the comfort of a luxury yacht. Discover the unique landscape, history and culture in Ayers Rock and then finish your vacation snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,364
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Classic Sydney and Great Barrier Reef

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Visit the two of the most popular parts of Australia, particularly for first time visitors. Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and harbourside Sydney. See the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and more, snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, then get to know the secrets of the rainforest.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,426
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details
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