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Australia & South Pacific

Sydney Tours, Vacations, 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

  • Wine, Wilderness & Wildlife: Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, Tasmania and more

    FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover Australia’s unique icons, unforgettable flavours, and gorgeous wildlife on this exciting journey Downunder. Connecting from Sydney to Adelaide, Tasmania, and Melbourne, you’ll tour world wonders, get up close to kangaroos and Tasmanian devils, and sample some of the world’s best food and wine in lush wine regions.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,629
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Sydney in Style

    FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Take an insider’s look at Sydney’s best sights, from the comfort of a luxury yacht on Sydney Harbour. Drop anchor in a peaceful bay for lunch with plenty of time to swim, fish or relax on board. Visit the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains on an off-the-beaten-track nature tour and visit remote locations with stunning views, cascading waterfalls and amazing rock formations like the famous Three Sisters.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,044
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Sydney and Reef Discovery

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the spectacular Sydney harbour, visit with unique Aussie wildlife, learn about the indigenous culture in the rainforest and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. This package is perfect if you want a taste of Australia and you are limited on time.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,184
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Signature Australia: Sydney, Rock, Reef & Rainforest

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the icons of Australia in the company of a private guide. Go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House and cruise Sydney Harbour. Explore the Outback and see Uluru lit up at dawn and dusk. Explore the Daintree Rainforest and cap off the experience with a couple nights at a resort in the Whitsundays.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,959
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Signature Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: See Sydney’s famous sites behind the scenes in-style with your private-guide and cruise the fabulous harbour like a local. Head North to explore the Great Barrier Reef from your luxurious deluxe retreat. The tranquility and natural beauty of Lizard Island will pamper you.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,149
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Aussie Family Adventure

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the best of Australia combining the excitement of snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, a visit to the Crocodile Hunter’s Australia Zoo, dolphin feeding at Tangalooma, soaring above the rainforest in a cable car, and touring Sydney by ferry. An ideal family vacation.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Classic South Pacific; Australia, New Zealand and Fiji

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy the Classic South Pacific by encountering Fijian, Maori and Aboriginal cultures. Travel from Fiji to New Zealand to Australia taking in fantastic sights and experiences enroute in Auckland, Rotorua, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,396
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Highlights & Wildlife: Sydney, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Cairns

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy the best of Australia’s wine, culture and wildlife on this 12 day journey. Experience diverse and historic Sydney, renowned wineries in the Barossa Valley, the local wildlife of Kangaroo Island and experience a close encounter with the abundant sea life on the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,516
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers)
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Best of Australia Holiday of a Lifetime

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: See the highlights of Australia in under two weeks on our fully-escort Best of Australia Holiday of a Lifetime. On this unforgettable tour, you’ll see Australia’s major urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, view unforgettable icons like the Sydney Opera House, get into the heart of the Outback with visits to Uluru/Ayers Rock and Alice Springs, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Single Friendly
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Active Sydney & Surrounds

    Get to the heart of Australia’s most famous city as you hike, bike, and venture to some of Sydney’s most iconic sites. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, hike through the Blue Mountains, enjoy a wine tasting in the Hunter Valley, and surf at Bondi Beach for an Australian vacation you’ll never forget.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,697
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Australian Experience

    FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover the land Downunder on this group vacation full of city tours, wildlife encounters, and great food and wine. See some of the highlights of Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, and the Great Barrier Reef. Our Groups Only Specialist would be delighted to tailor your very own group vacation Downunder. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travelers.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Specialty Groups & Events
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Brisbane and Sydney in Style

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Start your vacation with a visit to sunny Brisbane and visit the famous Crocodile Hunter's Australia Zoo. Head on down to Sydney and see the city's iconic sights on a luxury yacht. Visit the beautiful Blue Mountains and witness cascading waterfalls and the famous Three Sisters.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,121
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Coastal Gems: Melbourne, Great Barrier Reef & Sydney

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Australia's crystal coasts on this 15-day Australia vacation. This ideal introduction to the country's most famous gems takes you from Sydney to Port Douglas and Melbourne, immersing you in the rich culture and landscapes. Venture from the Blue Mountains to the Coral Sea with spectacular city stops along the way.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,999
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Discover Australia

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: This 12-day Australia vacation promises a remarkable experience combining Australia’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary scenes. Travel from the historical harbour of Sydney to the awe-inspiring Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, and the vibrant laneways of Melbourne as you discover Australia.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,479
    Trip Type:
    Go as you Please, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essence of Brisbane, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine three Aussie highlights on one convenient vacation. Start in sunny Brisbane, where you’ll explore the city and visit the nearby rainforest. Connect north to Cairns to cruise the Great Barrier Reef and explore the Daintree River. Finish your trip in Sydney to see the city’s iconic sights on a luxury luncheon cruise.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,349
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Essential Australia: Sydney, Rock, Reef, Melbourne

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience Australia’s diverse landscape and world-class landmarks on this journey across the nation. Explore the famous cities of Sydney and Melbourne, delve into ancient culture and see Uluru/Ayers Rock, cruise the Great Barrier Reef, and discover the Daintree Rainforest.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,656
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Food & Wine Downunder

    FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover some of Australia’s famous and not so famous wines, and immerse your taste buds with local produce and dishes as your travel. This private tailor-made tour is a foodies dream! Our Groups Only Specialist will be delighted to put together your customized trip to Australia for your group. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travellers.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Specialty Groups & Events
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Highlights of New South Wales

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the charm and beauty of New South Wales on this journey to Sydney and beyond. In Sydney, tour The Rocks and the Sydney Opera House, before heading into the Blue Mountains to see the Three Sisters and visiting award-winning wineries in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,229
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Kangaroos & Koalas

    Designed to be big on sights and fun but easy on kids, this is the perfect family introduction to Sydney. Explore Sydney harbour on a cruise, enjoy a walking tour of the historic Rocks district and visit the spectacular Blue Mountains.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Live Like A Local: North of Sydney (Central Coast)

    A travel highlight for most Globetrotters is to mingle and interact with locals. But to actually live amongst them, even for just a short time, is an experience of a life time.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Snowbird Long Stays, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Natural South East Queensland Wildlife & Rainforest: Brisbane to Brisbane Self Drive

    This driving vacation offers plenty of opportunity to get out and about in Queensland’s natural beauty. Drive to and walk through Lockyer Valley, Lamington National Park and Fraser Island.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 849
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Pacific Coast Explorer Self Drive: 7 Days

    Self-drive holidays are a very unique way to travel. Begin in Sydney then head to wine country in Hunter Valley. Next is Port Stephens and Coffs Harbour before arriving in the Gold Coast.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,099
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Sea, Sand & City - Gold Coast & Sydney

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an enchanting 13-day adventure to Australia, commencing with an exploration of the captivating Gold Coast. Journey onward to Sydney, renowned for its iconic landmarks and magnificent harbor vistas.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,389
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Australia See Trip Details

  • Signature Sydney

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the magic of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour on this private-guided exclusive vacation. Get to know Australia’s largest city on a walking tour and go behind-the-scenes of the Opera House before you cruise the famous harbour on a private yacht.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,057
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences
    Australia See Trip Details

  • South Pacific Trio: Australia, New Zealand & Fiji

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Spend 16 days exploring Fiji's Coral Coast, Sydney, and Auckland, three of the most iconic South Pacific Destinations. Indulge in your five-star Fiji resort with complimentary activities, pristine beaches, and cultural excursions, fly to Sydney for four nights of unlimited exploration with discounted access to top attractions, and uncover the charm of Auckland, navigating its highlights with a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off tour.
    Duration:
    16 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,999
    Trip Type:
    Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Fiji See Trip Details
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